The origins of the word cool…stated in Wikipedia as "aesthetic of attitude", somewhat predictably evolved in the 30’s during the jazz era. Sometimes, it’s a quality easy to describe, but sometimes verbally it’s too hard to define! In dress or fashion, it's perhaps the look of ‘meh’ I don’t care , but secretly I do, but it needs to look like I don’t…confused yet? BUT... there is the other meaning…temperature…so, whether you’re going back to cool, school or even Liverpool, perhaps it’s good to look at something for the plummeting temperatures AND raising of suave!

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On the cheat sheet for looking cool, this would be at the top of the list, aged looking jeans, easy fresh shirt and a white jean jacket, oh...and don't forget the Converse. If the kicks are too casual, these jeans are excellent for either working in the garden or a casual weekend look, a change of footwear is all it takes! OR what could be cooler than one of the new Frida tops

Mavi Ada boyfriend jean - for 4 days until August 25 $ 82.60

Runway Frida Kahlo blouse $ 59

 

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While there are other denim cuts trending, there's still room for the skinny jeans. And if you haven't taken the plunge yet...give them a go. There's definitely a way to wear them that's not provocative. Just casual and uncomplicated, as above...you know, like you'd like your life to be!

Yoga Rachel hirise skinny (dark indigo) for 4 days until Aug 25 $91

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I actually don't care if this is cool or not, I think it's gorgeous. I love the flow and drape of the kimono; casual, exotic/boho. Yet another co-ordinate that flows from extremely casual, like breakfast on your patio to an evening on a restaurant patio. And it comes in two patterns, a lighter print that's perfect for now or the one above which is great well into fall!

Mahila Arabella kimono (floral or grey print) $95

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This look definitely has that overt look of 'what you think of me, is none of my business'. Regardless, these cargos are so comfortable and very easy to match with other colours.

Mavi Juliette smoke camouflage (smoke grey camo) for 4 days until Aug 25 $82.60

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There's something very 'I Dream of Jeanie' about this, perhaps the ethereal nature of the silk fabric. It's really good to think ahead, be prepared for upcoming affairs...I mean...events!

Meo Meli silk over jersey slip dress (black, denim, blue or red) $119

I'm pretty sure I don't need to explain what cool is, either in attitude, dress or verbal skills. When you got it, you got it, when you don't... walk tall and pretend whatever it is you're wearing 'IS' the new trend. Because, frankly confidence is always cool!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

"I'm so cool, even ice cubes are jealous" ~ unknown  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Wardrobe Hangover!

Do you ever just look at your wardrobe and feel like you're experiencing a hangover? Imbibed in a bit too much... too much green, too many v-necks or maybe too many maxi’s? NO, me neither! If I love a style, I am it’s biggest fan and see no need to try something else! OH but don’t get me wrong, oh lover of all things pink, I LOVE to look at and bask in the glow of other styles and colours…just perhaps not on me! And if you’re a huge devotee of linen, this is your chance. Stock up on the chicest style ever produced for the most adored ¼ of the year!

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To add to your collection of linen garments, another great item for moving forward to cooler nights. And perhaps wear with Plum's new Frida Kahlo top. The originator of the selfie. Although hers were produced the long way! And I, for one, am so very glad of her divine talent! In this case, picking up on the colours present in the Monarch butterfly, brings it together.

Meo Meli linen jacket (black, denim, navy, rust or white) now $78

Runway Frida Kahlo blouse (black) $59

 

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I feel that if the exquisite Frida were alive today, she'd be drawn to linen and freestyle, edgier designs such as above.

Meo Meli asymmetric one pocket top (denim blue) now $76

 

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"I paint flowers so they will not die" Frida Kahlo is noted as saying. She was clearly very much compelled by beautiful blossoms as they appear in a multitude of her works.

Meo Meli rolled sleeve linen top (pink, silver or white) now $88

 

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Perhaps you're looking for a monochromatic look. Still agonizing over having missed the Diner en Blanc? That's ok, have your own, invite some friends and ask each friend to bring a friend! A great way to meet new people!

Meo Meli tunic with soutache (black or white) now $95

Yoga highrise skinny ankle jean (white) now $89 (availability is diminished and in select stores)

Linen just will never go out of style, even if you have a storage locker with your favourite pieces from years gone by, or some pieces hidden away in your daughters closet...perhaps it's time to actually pass them on to her, she likely wears them anyway! (check her selfie's on Facebook)!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

Hangover [hang-oh-ver] noun: an unpleasant feeling you will never experience with TOO MANY OF YOUR FAVOURITE GARMENT!   ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Fashion Flunkie!

In my house, my beautiful black lab is often referred to as a ‘flunkie’, because we obtained my favourite-coloured-fur-coated friend from the BC GUIDE Dogs Association (he failed the program—SHHH!!) So what do I have in common with him other than loving the colour black?  My dog is laser focused on balls, food and cats; for me, the colour black, jackets and accessories (shoes are accessories-right?). BUT he and I are not in bad company…Let’s not forget Maya Angelou, who dropped out of school as a teen or Steven Spielberg who was reportedly rejected from the University of Southern California School of Theatre, Film and TV three times…We just have to remember that in life, even rejection or failure, will leads to something brighter, someplace else! Ok maybe I'm not so much a flunkie, but certainly not a GURU, maybe more of a fashion companion/guide…So, Let’s continue to explore the Plum fashion landscape together.

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I think every one of us needs to have a grab and go summer dress. This is so fresh and light...does it not remind you of marguerites' on a patio or a beach BBQ?

Millibon rushed back sundress (mustard) now $75

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While photography is not one of my best talents, I was too excited not to share my rainbow cuff bracelet. Maybe not an exact match with the kimono to the left, but not everything has to match perfectly... imperfection adds interest. Both the kimono and bracelet are found in stores only. Kimono in select stores only.

 

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I never thought paperbag waist pants would see the light of day again....but here we have them, and oddly enough, I think they look better than before. And while these pants are not black, I think it's a great transeasonal autumnal shade.

Cream culotte pants (bronze) $119

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So, perhaps somewhat predictably, I purchased this dress. AND,I was so not disappointed. I love tank dresses for their ability to position themselves so comfortably in anyone's wardrobe. Above they've adorned the model with Converse...but I wore mine with a skinny gold belt, a denim vest and vintage gold shoes. I was surprised how well it worked with gold accents. Note that this dress comes in other colours as well.

Bazzollo sheath dress (black, olive, grey, red or wine) $49

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I realize, with the summer heat, that most of us would rather wear nothing but a smile, but unless you're hanging out on Wreck beach, it's unlikely to go over well. This kaftan is so fresh and light; I love how it's been matched with white pants, but try it also with my fabulous tank dress (I mean...you get one!) or Bermuda shorts.

In store only - varies by location

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These are perfect for weekend parties, drinks with the girls or date night! Keeping you cool, while looking super hot!

Sage bustier style dress (black) now $79

Mio Meli gathered neck dress (red or navy) $119

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Our absolutely fabulous Manager at our Granville store, showed this to me, on my last 5 minute speed shopping trip. If only I had 5 more minutes or was more adventurous...Don't you just love the pockets, throw in your credit card and cell phone and you're totally hands free for errands! Brilliant when design meets function!

Mio Meli mesh 2 pocket top (6 colours) $95

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Every time I spot this shirt dress I think LEONTODON TAXACUM....you know dandelions...the dandelion puffs...that you blow and make wishes on? I can think of worse things than to wear something that looks like one giant wish! Regardless of what it resembles to you, again, another very trans-seasonal item. Wear it with tights or of course, belt it.

Mio Meli button front dress (olive, taupe or white) $110

Really not necessary to excel or be the top of any specific thing, just do it (as Nike has been hammering home to us for an eternity). I love fashion, the varied looks of how one can pull together a feeling, even wearing the same thing as someone else. It's not about being the best it's about manifesting a YOU-NESS that no one else can do!

Yours in Fashion passion...

"When I was 7 years old, I wanted to be a jockey. My father told me women weren't allowed. I couldn't believe it, I was perfectly willing to fail on my own merits, but to be flunked at birth?" ~ Mavis Leno  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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The bold and the beautiful

Don't miss out on the great deals...

  • select styles of Kimono's are 50% off the regular price
  • select dresses are $45 and $55 (styles vary by location)
  • more markdown...

Some people are compelled by all things bold; does that make the rest of us just plain old beautiful? :)  In fashion bold doesn't necessarily mean gaudy, loud or extravagant. It can mean bright, different or stand out style. I'm ok with fitting into either category, thank you very much! So, which is it, are you bold...or beautiful...or maybe you're AMBI? ...BOLD-IFUL!

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This beautiful little dress from the front of the email, really...everyone should have in their summer wardrobe. The shirring on the bodice makes it super comfortable for nearly any size chest, a flowey skirt just below knee level and a pleasant floral pattern. And when August moves into September, a bit cooler, adding a jean jacket makes it a lovely combo.
 
 
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I think I'd file these two tops in beautiful file! Well, no, you'd not want to file them anywhere, you'd want to wear them, maybe to a garden party.
 
 
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While this might not be red patent leather or rose gold embossed embroidery....it's certainly a fearless, unique design. An artistic deconstructed look that boldly says...HERE I AM! The top, a linen composition, so needed, so now! It's partner, the bottom, which invites free, lively movements, is also linen.
 
 
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This is a gorgeous little mixed pattern transitional piece. Lighthearted enough for now with some great warm autumn shades for the pallet of the fall.
 
 
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The hue of this dress (think...shades of a mirrored lake)is far from bold,but, it's design is certainly conspicuous, however, also practical. Note the oversized pocket and adjustable shoulder ties. All the while being it's breezy, linen self! Because you know, we are so not finished with summer, not even close.
 
 
It's clearly ok to be both bold and beautiful but they're not like Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen...they're not twins, not always together! We all have that one bold friend who wears what's most garish (gosh, maybe that's me) or that stunning friend who can stop traffic in the middle of Swindon's roundabout. I've thought about this as I put on the boldest, darkest eyeliner...(gee, if I put this on for me, curious that I can't even see it unless I look in a mirror). Maybe just maybe it's ok to be bold in ones head or memory. Bold is in the 'mind' of the be-bolder!
 
Yours in Fashion passion...
 
Suzanne M.
 
"Be bold and beautiful they say, because confidence is the best beauty you can be!"~ Anmol
 
 
 
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Dress Rehearsal

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Pssss!!! Plum has new linens in store...head into a location near you to check them out...pictures to come.

I’ve never been in a play, acted or given a performance (unless you count, being out in ones PJ's after dark, yelling for ones dog that wandered off...that sure felt like a very bad one...that I hope to not have a repeat performance of), then no, I’ve never done one. So, to me, every day is ‘go time’. We can plan our day, map out where and when we go, and then boom…life happens. You know, other people’s plans collide with ours! There really is no ‘run-through’. So, we should just dress like we mean it! Like we’re the main act! Because, we are!

And because Spencer+Shaw dresses are 50% off the regular price, of course, you'll want to buy 2! All dresses noted in this blog are in store only...styles and selection vary by store.

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Wherever you go, there you are! I know that was pretty far away from deep! In any case, if you're feeling like it's a dress day for you, go for it. On occasion I've had people say to me, 'oh you're dressed up!'....no, not really, I just dress to amuse myself! Because, why not! You know the quote, life is short, buy the dress! (or wear the dress)! What are we saving the good china (earrings, shoes...wine) for?

Spencer+Shaw wrap style flutter sleeve dress - NOW $55

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I think this would be perfect for the Vancouver Folk fest upcoming. An easy, unstructured cut, suited to dancing the day and night away!

Spencer+Shaw novelty trim dress NOW $68

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Consider this a dress, consider it a wrap, or a Kimono or a kimo-wrap-dress......Regardless, it's super convertible and a big time multi tasker, like you! Worn above with tights, but could be worn without the tights, a belt and some spiked heels or platform wedges are big now.

Spencer+Shaw Asian print Kimono dress NOW $53

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Go ahead, strike a pose Madonna, you are totally all that and a bag o' chips! Suddenly I have a craving for chips! Another great, all occasion type dress...to the beach, to a performance, to a dinner party or just to your back deck for coffee, with your dog! The great ubiquity of the tank style, with some added style (ruching) on the side, spandex and the sexy deep plunging back for some added drama!

Spencer+Shaw tank dress ruched side NOW $55

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Another wrap dress, this time a faux wrap. In other words, it looks like you could whip it off in a dramatic fit of passion or it could blow open with a gust of wind......but no! It just looks that way. It consists of a very feminine, semi-retro styling with side tie and a bit of elastic at the back for ease of movement!

Spencer+Shaw midi length faux wrap dress NOW $59

Life is pretty much a 'live' performance...our very own reality show, if you will! However, it's our own script, no matter how you look at it, we each have our own. While there may not be a rehearsal for most of our life events....there can be part 2...3...etc. Make sure you remember to include intermission...you know, to grab some popcorn!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

"I don't dress up for boys. I dress up to stare at my reflection in store windows as I walk by." ~ Someecards

   ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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