summer

Scene stealer

Do you dress for attention or intention and what's the difference? ATTENTION is anything that turns heads, INTENTION is a message you 'intend' to convey (professional, creative, functional, tasteful)! For me, as a teen I was drawn to the most inconspicuous possible...fast forward 30 years (ok 40), I counsel myself with 'no need to wear all the bold things at once'! Here's a great tip that someone once shared... If you're dressed and ready to go and unsure of all the components...face away from the mirror, turn around quickly and the first thing that catches your eye...take it off. (I personally take all else off-lol). OR turn to someone who knows what works...like Plum.

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I'm not sure which camp this dress falls into, nor if it matters. It's so pretty, yet bold and easy to wear. Features an easy shape, pockets, tie back and comes in 3 great patterns. Go summer!!

Simone sleeveless flared sundress (aqua, blue/pink, red) $129

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This definitely makes for a dramatic look. Love the black/white contrast, however, keeping in mind the detailed pattern of the lace, one could certainly pair it with many other things, skinny jeans, crop pants, shorts, with footwear being one of the key focus changers.

Wander maxi embroidered mesh vest (black) $85

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Perhaps your intention is towards looking casual, comfortable, yet still trendy. This has it all in the bag. Cold shoulder and pink have made a big splash this year. The loose fit and tie dye create a casual comfortable vibe! (also makes a great cover-up for the beach).

Wander tie dye cold shoulder dress (pink) $55

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For professional reasons, you might need to keep things somewhat simple. The above top is indeed simple, however, with a different twist, vertical variegated stripes.

Soya concept t style vertical stripe top (off white) $59

If your intention and attention don't come together, that's ok...just get dressed, be yourself and wear what you love don't let it wear you!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

Plum's online store is open around the clock. But for personal service..head into a location near you. Staff will gladly help you find your focus!

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Make a trend...fake a trend

Who doesn't love matchy matchy? Plum's annual campaign to support BIG SISTERS is now in full swing and when you donate $3.50 to Big Sisters Plum will match every donation (up to $35)...Because matching is important! The goal is to help BIG SISTERS match two big and little sisters! Plus....be entered to win a $1000 wardrobe from Plum...yes A $1000 wardrobe! In honour of Plum's 35th year...Happy Birthday Plum! What a great way to celebrate! Note: only donations made in one of our Plum locations will be entered into the draw.

A recent fashion news story stated the day of 'trends' is all but gone, that we create our own individual trends, thus no longer requiring fashion hierarchy dictating what we must wear. However I then discovered yet another story about an ecommerce retailer who's latest trend set the web on fire by stating they are now selling 'puppies' alongside accessories. After I picked my jaw up off the keyboard, the article later stated it was a fake ploy to draw attention to animal welfare issues. I love puppies, but prefer mine on the end of a leash, not delivered in a Fedex box! So,if you're of the 'trend' camp and like to see new, exciting, fresh ideas on the fashion front OR you see things more in a classic way...linen is a great seasonal choice, It exudes class without being pretentious but provides a great canvas for your trendy additions. Here's what some of Plum's very own staff (the experts) have to say about it:

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Graciela said: "It's elegant, sexy and versatile". I agree Graciela, this jacket is all these things. Hard to abandon the blazer for the summer but the breathable nature of this fabric makes it possible to extend the wear into the warmer months.

Tobias linen jacket with welt pocket (caramel, khaki or natural) $185

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Allison said: "I tried on the top and pants together to get an idea of the fit, without the intent to wear them together, but they actually made a great outfit. I added a long necklace and it was fantastic!"

The function of these summer neutral colours are indeed wonderful together and yet the benefit of blending them with your existing wardrobe pieces, also makes them a must for the season. The washed fabrication of many of the co-ordinates, makes them softer to the touch. Worn simply or adding (as noted) some bold trendy jewelry punctuates your look!

Plum relaxed washed linen pant (black,grey or oatmeal) $82

Plum washed linen tank top (black, grey, oatmeal or white) $59

 

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Kayo said: "it's a 'chic' hippy look" 

Of course we soon head into the nearly unbearably hot season where shorts are almost the only option. What's great about linen shorts is they offer a bit more of a 'grown up' style. Great for festival season, however, a trendy way to wear them is with heels or strappy sandals and a long, light weight vest or kimono.

Plum washed linen shorts (black,grey or oatmeal) $65

worn with:

CM shell top, button back, lace bottom (cupcake) $55 (100% rayon)

 

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Naomi said: "it wrinkles but, like me, they earned it by living and loving life". Linen is definitely livable, breathable, loveable!

And let's not forget the skirt because while summer suddenly descends upon us, we are still on the job. A great co-ordinate for the office, school or the weekend wardrobe. Yes it wrinkles but, this is part of it's easy going, aesthetic.

Plum washed linen drawstring skirt (black, grey or oatmeal) $69

The earth inspired colours of the 'exclusive to Plum' linen collection, blends so seamlessly into the season at hand. Whether you decide to dial up the daring and add bold accessories or choose the minimal route, linen is an essential for the season.

Remember; being yourself is a trend that never goes out of style!

Yours in Fashion passion....

Suzanne M.

ps, don't forget Plum online is open 24 hours a day...

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If you won ten million...what would you do? In a two year old survey taken of US residents a surprising 2/3 of those polled would continue to work. What about your car or what you wear? Would you continue to wear the same style, make a major style change or would you merely invest in more cat print, hand painted, silk scarves with Himalayan beaded fringe? (we all have our weird fashion obsessions) Waiting for an unlikely windfall to wear what you love, is living for tomorrow. Buy smart and you'll look like a million dollars!

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Plunge right into spring with this lovely, fresh, owl print, vintage style dress. Put together in the photo with lemon yellow converse shows how it can be lightened up for casual wear. For leisure, we tend to gravitate to jeans, but why not a dress? Easy on, wrap style, securely fastens at the waist with 2 sweet buttons and back gathers. Style tip: worried about the front flying open at inopportune times? Wear bicycle shorts with a lace border or a vintage slip underneath. And footwear just changes the mood. Mary Janes or ankle wrap flats are different options.

Simone cap sleeve wrap dress (black or royal) $139

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I feel compelled to take someone down to the river and feed them tea and oranges when I look at this dress (thank you Leonard Cohen). Call me half crazy but this, bold exotic print reminds me so much of long days at festivals or (again) with different footwear and a shawl, makes a great brunch outfit.

Simone sleeveless dress with front keyhole (blue or orange) $149

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Off the shoulder, cold shoulder and open shoulder looks are big this season. This ethnic print, embroidered top will look great with shorts, midi skirts, maxi skirts and as you can see a great offset for crisp white pants (on your yacht). Here's a tip for keeping the off the shoulder...off your shoulders (view).

Flying Tomato embroidered peasant blouse (black) $59

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Speaking of crisp white...won't you look fabulous stepping out of your stretch limousine in this sleek looking Simone dress ;) A beautifully cut and designed dress with a decidedly futuristic edge.

Simone sheath dress with metal zipper (white) $129

Given that the chances of being the top winner of such a lottery are as slim as Paris Hilton's skinny jeans....why wait for tomorrow or 'maybe'...live for now (but we can still dream and plan)!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

ps...DREAM BIG..but enjoy the little things  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Dress like a woman....

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Does wearing a dress define you 'as a woman'? Does it mean anything at all, in our ultra 'anything goes' society? What does it mean to you? Whether you're a committed dress wearer or not, we can't help but feel a tiny bit sorry for men on an ultra hot day, that they cannot throw on a dress!  There is no prohibition rule, however unless feeling like a street sign all day is compelling...this is probably why most don't. Just a guess! Plum has plenty of dress options, for the hot days here and ahead.

Take a peak:

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This delightful little dress really can't help but make you happy. It's just lush with fresh, mesmerizing patterns and a multitude of colours. Sweet, easy v-neck, with gathered, empire waist and pockets. It just screams comfort and fun. And once again, the designer does not disappoint with a lovely, low back detail.

Simone sun dress with back gathers and pockets in 4 lovely prints $ 110 now $ 88

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I don't think anything says 'summer' more than the strapless dress (maybe a sun hat)...top shirring makes for great comfort and a sweeping maxi length. A tie in the middle can be tied as a bow or as a halter around the neck. For a bit more coverage, can be worn with a shrug or short kimono if a little more coverage is needed (or to conceal bra straps). Either way, a great pick!

Alythea bandeau dress (navy/green) $ 85

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Here's a dress that has somewhat of a goddess like feel to it. Divinely draped, giving it an elegant edge despite it's knit fabrication. Definitely a high fashion look, yet has not lost it's comfort value.

Pursue drape dress (black/heather grey) $89 now $69

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Another fantastic dress where colour and pattern pack a huge punch. Comprised of a butter soft fabric combination of rayon/spandex with side slit. Do not be intimidated by the deep slit at the back. So easy to pick out a colour from the dress and find a cami if not wearing a bra is out of the question. Great for dressing up or down; and my feeling is the footwear choice creates the conversion.

Cherish sheath dress (multi or navy) $89

So, after exploring a multitude of dress style variations, what's the verdict? Can a dress define you as a woman? I think not! Do not let the dress define you...YOU define the dress...make it your own (or wear shorts ;) ).

Yours in Fashion passion...

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

 
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Linen reigns supreme

Linen is a fabric that, in ancient times, would have been worn by the wealthier class of society.  In fact, it was a very important source of trade and commerce.  Which might explain why we're all drawn to it. Of it's many beautiful qualities, durability and breathability insure it's a staple of the season. Plum has, once again, produced some jackets with simply exquisite fits. Lets look at these linen beauties, and what can be paired with them.

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Above the beautiful front cover jacket in white. Put together with a black skirt and simple clutch. Linen's usual hue's are ivory, ecru and natural shades, however, this crisp white is such a great, light departure from the usual.

Tobias 100% linen jacket (mustard, black and white)$179

Tobias front flap skirt with buttons (black or off white) $88

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Despite it's noble past, linen marries so well with nearly all coordinates.  Dress it up, or dress it down, it can easily replace a simple cardigan so beautifully without appearing too formal.

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In keeping with the same, casual, cool vibe, the above tank is a wonderful, lightweight option if you choose to go the informal route. If you feel so inclined to remove your jacket, the back detail does not disappoint.

Kersh flower tank (warm white) $48

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This sweet little, feminine dress combined with the linen jacket in mustard is such an airy, easy look. (Simone dresses always abundant in detailing and fit). Change the sandals to sling backs or heels and this look is great for school, the office or a Saturday brunch date.

Simone open back dress (ivory or navy print) $120

Despite Linen's regal history, it invariably provides for as many options as outfits you choose to create. Nefertiti would be envious!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

Tobias....locally designed and made  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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