NEW ARRIVALS ALERT: If you're as much addicted to new arrivals as I am, head into Plum and check out the many new lines and labels! (be sure to check out the webstore as well)
When you're running late...but still want to look your usual fabulous self, what to do and how to cut corners? What else is there beyond, pull back ones hair? It's good to have some grab and go looks, just in case when you must also consider the weather, the commute or where you're actually heading. And remember, there's a fine line between the look of creative chaos and looking like you got dressed in the middle of a 3 year olds birthday party in an amusement park. So, don't try too hard to look perfect but, note to self, make sure things are brushed (hair, teeth and coat)!
Oh, the power of the flower...the 60's was full of them...what could be simpler. And the sweater, so soft you'd think you fell into a pile of kittens but with a hint of gold glitter threads. Once again graphic t's are a massive hit season after season for their ubiquitous nature. Tucked into a skirt or crop skinnies, and belted with a blazer, this, by all means can move from weekend to workplace.
While dresses get the quick-one-garment award, it's hard to beat the pull on skirt for ease of coordination. Firstly, it's elastic waist makes fit and comfort a major plus, secondly, the tone is no challenge to match with nearly any shade. This skirt has slight metallics woven throughout. Great for Friday night fun or subtle enough for the office. Wear it with a turtleneck, throw a scarf on your neck and a Kersh cardi or blazer and you're done. Just as functional on the weekends with a jean jacket.
Jumpsuits have made a big comeback as of late and the one above has been sold out multiple times. It's hard to imagine anything easier for getting dressed. Although unless your work environment involves toddlers, generally speaking, this is a splendid choice for weekend and casual occasions.
Blazers have now moved into the status of basics. And what better than stretch! Never fear the extra servings of pasta from the night before, and comfort is the ultimate key.
Perhaps it's a bit torturous to be showing a coat right now, however, this is just one divine coat and before long, we'll feel the chill upon us. And in recent years, I've realized at times they double as inner wear as well; a piece to complete the outfit, much like a long blazer. Made from 45% wool, 2 large patch pockets and 2 inner snaps for quick closure, this coat has just a luxurious texture.
Sunday was moving day or a sick day...or for whatever reason Monday now feels like something you'd like to take a pair of scissors to. Running late, running out of time and patience, you pull back your hair, skip the mascara and throw your 'office' shoes into a bag and run. Try to think about this sweet quote: "Some of the secret joys of living are not found by rushing from point A to point B but by inventing some imaginary letters along the way" ~ Douglas Pagels. And just remember, there's always Tuesday, we get to try again.
If white was the only colour in existence or straight was the only shape. Just think... sunsets would be blindingly white, rainbows or red lipstick would be non existent and my beloved black...gone? (gasp!) What about straight...no more curly hair, round emoji's or forget about envying Beyonce or Jlo's posterior! A world without variation, vibrant colour or shape. Impossible, disturbingly dull, depressing and unthinkable. AND thankfully, just not how it actually is! Let's look at some colours and shapes:
Talk about shape. This is a great silhouette for walking into fall. And of course Yoga jeans are the best of them. Really authentic denim finish, but the bonus...so comfortable you could sleep in them. But why...better to strut in them!
Another one of my personal favourite colours is grey. Often overlooked and frowned upon by it's resemblance to fog and gloominess...however, it doesn't conjure up images of funeral processions or witches hats like it's cousin black, and still serves as a sleek backdrop for other colours to coordinate with. You name it, it will match! And shape? That's all you!
And how is this for colour? The Kersh cardigan, comes in seven luscious fall colours. And of course the beauty of the cardigan is that it transfers so seamlessly from season to season. Layer it under a jacket, belt it or just bring it along 'just in case'. Or buy one for a friend who's always cold!
Still not ready to abandon the white? There is no reason to do so. When worn with any other colour, white has the ability to bring out the best in all coordinating colours. This beautiful blouse is simply crying out for a fabulous necklace and an arm full of bangles.
If you're simply not able to hone in on one colour of choice, this top is a good solution, comprised of the majority of the fall pallet all in one. A simple, easy style with a modern print, somewhat looking like a close up, pixilated photo.
Colours, shapes, sizes and differences...I cannot imagine life without vibrant red strawberries, my black Labrador retriever, pink pearl erasers or my favourite berry that only comes in blue.. like life without music. And for anyone who believes that creating more variations on something obliterates the original; think about this...white does not diminish because of the presence of black, it's enhanced by it. And vise versa!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
Laundry is the only thing that should be separated by colour ~ Author unknown!
NEWS FLASH: I found summer... hidden inside a box in my attic! Some hats, a few pairs of flip flops and some expired suntan lotion. However, no need to climb up to the attic or go into storage; step out of your door and be blasted by oven temperature heat! Being someone who loves jackets, scarves and boots, it's taken this long for me to realize...layering has to wait. But those autumnal lovers of us, can still find some fun with, hats and colourful summer shoes (and a few frosty summer drinks). And of course, at this point, lots of sales are in full swing. Thus a time to venture into a possibly new colour or style that is usually just too far over our fashion comfort zone:
I find life generally so complicated, some days combing my hair is a luxury. Thankfully we have hats and hair bands!! Summer to the rescue... simple blouse, easy sandals or flats and in this case a great hat...easy peasy light and breezy!
If this doesn't resemble a whisper in the wind....In any case, this summer, I was coerced into purchasing something in 'turquoise'. Which is as far away as Ontario is, outside my colour comfort zone (pink being like Newfoundland). While I can't say I want to visit Ontario (turquoise) every weekend, I don't mind going there at all. So, learning to venture into other, complimentary colours.
This is so sweet I've made a dental appointment! Actually I truly adore the lace edging and insert detailing. Reminds me of picnics in the park. And while it looks great with the rolled up cut offs, I would also pair this with a basic pencil skirt and a long antique locket.
This is one of the best representations of summer...a simple dress, in a floral print. Comprised mostly of cotton save the small amount of very welcome spandex...just as great for the office with a cardigan or blazer as with Keds and a jean jacket for the weekends.
Summer is full of cold cocktails, suntans, vacations and coffee on the balcony...I might sound like I'm full of baloney when I say that's great. I'm not a grown up version of Wednesday from the Addams Family, but I do like my blacks and whites although I do still realize, summer is a time to venture into some lighter, more happy shades. I just don't need to move to Ontario to prove it!
Yours in Fashion passion....
Suzanne M.
"There's nothing more beautiful than the way the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shoreline, no matter how many times it's sent away" ~ Sarah Kay ... read the full post and reader comments
CONGRATULATIONS to the winner of Plum's CANADA 150 DRAW...KRISTY from Vancouver!
NO, I am not dying or quitting, simply referring to literally packing for a trip. Having been on an epic vacation of a lifetime recently (think: planes, trains and automobiles), literally! The only thing not included in my extraordinarily memorable trip across Canada was horseback! This made me think two things 1) note to self: Never travel again (at least not with children) and 2) when I break that rule, be better prepared with proper luggage and clothing. What and how to pack for a trip? One would think I'd have learned from this monumental adventure and have a concrete answer. Well, I have at least a few thoughts and shopping suggestions.
Dresses are a really great travel garment, they're one item and they're usually comfortable. The one above, however, can also easily be worn either as a dress or a tunic. Add tights for more ease of movement. The elbow sleeves are such that if you're in a fickle climate, you don't need to worry about extra cover.
TOPS...Keep them basic. The solid colour offers the ability to mix and match with more bottoms, which means less to lug around...for a bit more interest, pack a small bag with accessories (favourite necklaces, earrings) to change things up a bit. The asymmetric hem, means you don't need to leave your style at home! TRAVEL TIP: If you're unable to find a laundromat, hand washing is always an option. Hang to dry, wring the garment out well and use the hair dryer to quick dry. For me, this worked surprisingly well for small garments.
Here's a wonderful option for warm climates. It's light, it's airy, it's also pretty and can be paired with (as seen above) jeans, shorts, skirts or even a tank dress. How to pack it without arriving with more wrinkles than grandpa?TRAVEL TIP: Best method? Using tissue and a plastic bag
Catwalk embroidered blouse (light pink) now $55
And who can resist the sweet little tiered skirt for beach vacations, or even staycations! Like olives are to a martini, the flirty short skirt goes well with sandals, or even Keds for walking. All they need is a little tank top and that's the outfit for the day. TRAVEL TIP: bring an extra canvas or reusable bag for either purchasing souvenirs or storing dirty laundry.
Soya Concept lined tiered skirt (dark earth) $65
And if you're not much into dresses or skirts, these are the best bottoms of choice. The just-below-the-knee tights are made of bamboo, which is typically softer than cotton and has better absorbency...and linen pants have proven to be a very easy, light fiber; and because wrinkles are a natural presentation of the fabric itself, it's perfect for the job of travel.
Orange capri legging (5 colours) $34
Plum drawstring linen pant (concrete, natural or olive) now $65
Give yourself a break when you're preparing to travel, think...comfort and less complicated. I wish I'd taken my own advice, I'd have brought less footwear and used better luggage. After all, it's really all about the journey, not the wrinkles.
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
"Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations" ~ Oliver Goldsmith
CONGRATULATIONS to the winner of Plum's Big Sisters draw...Claudia from Calgary. Thank you for supporting Big Sisters and we hope you enjoy your shopping trip!
I'm sure we all had a favourite dress from childhood, forever burned into our memories or on a wrinkled old, dog eared photo. I had a few but one of my most adored came from an Aunt who lived in New York. It was quite typically 70's, with big, bold primary coloured stripes and featuring a large plastic belt. Great, right? Well, I was only around 7. Hardly would compete with little Princess Charlotte's fashions today. But I loved it. I bet you also had a favourite! BUT let's face it, it's never to late to find a new favourite.
Despite this somewhat formal looking presentation, punctuated by the shoe choice, this dress can translate well to work attire, casual afternoon outings and Sunday afternoons, just lazing around on your sundeck! An easy fabric, a pleasing print and a really nice design...make it a great dress for multiple different type functions.
Simone dress with waist pleats (coral or royal) $119
This (above) is a great choice, because of it's delightfully, happy, patchwork look print and uncomplicated cut. Shoes are left to your imagination. However, I can suggest what's popular this season; thicker wedge soles, great for good long strolls or a style preferred by many, the espadrille!
Wink wink tank dress with curved hem (multi) $95
This is a terrific little day dress, with a bright blue print, super flattering neckline and a feature loved by all, pockets.
Wink wink vneck dress with pockets (black or royal) $110
A sweet, very feminine dress, complimented by the lavish lace insert, and with a few accessory switch ups, easily goes from day to night. A great colour, apparently, for the likes of Angelina Jolie (according to Instyle Magazine), therefore it will not likely be in my closet...we don't get mistaken for one another.
Cream lace insert dress (blush) $99
So, what's in a great dress? YOU! After all...in a closet, on a hanger, or in a heap next to your bed, it's just a pile of fabric. It's you that gives it personality and style. I have no photo of that dress of mine from so long ago, however, like boyfriends, there have been many more since and will continue to be into the future (dresses of course, not boyfriends), that was just one of my first ;)
