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cowboy checklist

How to tell if you're a cowboy (or girl)?

  • Do you drive a truck?
  • Do you own a horse
  • Do you like country music?

 If you answered no to any or all of those questions, take heart, you can still be a cowboy (or girl). Because who doesn't love denim? It's not just for the Stampede. Although, right now would be a good time to get prepared. Plum has a not-to-be-missed denim sale right now in 2 locations only. Plum in Kelowna and Plum in Calgary. All denim no less than 20% off. (so, get in your truck and drive there)!

 

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I love this kimono look. So fresh and light. (no horse required). These jeans have so much stretch in them, you'll forget you're wearing them.

 

 

 

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Yoga jeans are my ultimate favorite. (how can you tell I love denim, if I could have denim children I would). Speaking of children, there's been a shift in recent years to 'yoga' wear. Young girls used to want jeans only, now it's yoga wear. The marriage of the 2, the incredible stretch all in the form of a great denim fabric, and multiple style options, what else could you want? Love the cut of the leg on these; just enough leg width to fit over your boots.

 

 

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And lets not forget white (oooh, watch where you sit!)? A blank slate for all co-ordinates. However, my children would see it as a lovely fresh place to draw. (keep writing untensils out of reach).

I think I'm more of a city cowgirl. I love my denim, but I ride a bike, does that count?

Don't miss this sale. Promotion (in 2 stores only) ends June 15th. Don't miss out.

Yours in Fashion Obsession..

Suzanne M.

 

 

 

 

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Sale Into Summer

 
Drum roll please!!!
 
The much awaited season has arrived ahead of schedule. Sorry east coast but summer season has arrived here and we're keeping her!
 
In honor of this glorious, blissful, sunshine emitting season, we have a great great sale in progress. Are there pieces you've been obsessing over for a while and can't rest until you have them in your wardrobe? I absolutely, regularly do that, however, waiting for a sale is not something I excell at. Obsess no more, that much mulled over item may now be reduced:
 
Take a look:
 
 
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This breezy beautiful kimono cardigan... is so lightweight, you'd likely forget your wearing it, but offers just a touch of coverage and an irresistable color pallette. Now at $45, hard to resist (two print options)

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Perhaps it was this botanically inspired, light as air number. Now $52

 

So, time to get going, while selection is still available. Here's a refresher on sale shopping to get you prepared:

  • Pull your hair back, put on your Allstars and be ready for a workout.
     
  • Don't be stuck on your size.  Before you pass it up (not officially your size), give it a try. Stretchy fabric has a way of being more forgiving and can change the fit from something very loose and drapey to a fitted garment. Or, it's a size too large? Consider slight alterations.
     
  • Think outside the box - never been a fan of pink (did I just say that out loud?). Maybe this is the time to venture into another color spectrum. If it's on sale, less of an investment.
     
  • Don't forget any upcoming vacations, what a great time to make a reduced price purchase, then pack it away for the trip so you have something fresh and brand new when you arrive at your destination.
     
  • Buy more than one (something you like and a friend might as well?), think future gift giving.
     
  • REMEMBER - S.L.B.....SEE IT, LIKE IT BUY IT....because if you like it, someone else will too. How many times have I gone back to get something I had now become decisive about, and clearly someone beat me to it. Thus my CLOSET obsession has now kicked in...
     
  • Saved on the garment...now you can splurge on some accessories, a fabulous necklace or clutch to complete the outfit
     
  • Bring a friend. Sharing is good! Shopping a sale with a companion definitely makes it more enjoyable
     
  • Reward yourself for saving with a nice cappuccino later!
     

Markdowns have begun, start preparing to sale into Summer with some great bargains that will pump up your wardrobe.

And don't forget the current promotion; still a few days left to take advantage.

Plum Promo: From May 15 to May 25, spend minimum $100 (before taxes), you will qualify for a $15 off a future puchase coupon. Coupon will be emailed.

 

Yours in Fashion Passion...(or obsession).

        Suzanne M.

 
 
Suzanne's picture
First of all, don't miss out on our PLUM PROMO; Spend over $100, qualify for a $15 coupon for later use. You do not want to miss out on this; details below.
 
Lets talk dresses... life is complicated... go to to work, pick up kids, pick up groceries, pick up laundry,  pick up the slack...does it ever end? Probably not. It is what it is. Therefore,it's nice to just reach into the treasure chest of a closet and pull out something that just 'works'. Effortless chic; quality fabric, the right cut, and you're off. Easier to look good than changing a diaper in the dark (lets face it, you do that in your sleep (or have)). The days are full of multiple types of activities, walk the dog, make breakfast, go to work, PAC meetings etc....few people enjoy (or have time for) changing 4 times. I have been known to merely change my shoes and jacket (yes I've walked the dog in a dress). How simple.
 
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Stripes are your best friend when it comes to simplicity. Bonus points for the gathered pleat. This sleeveless knit shakes up the stripe, by adding a bit of visual interest, with this unexpected detail making accessories absolutely a matter of mood!
 
 
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Perhaps you're looking for a more demure look for an evening event, or afternoon tea. This is very much the season of lace. The ultimate in femine style. I almost had to catch my breath when I saw this stunning number. With a beautiful hint of pink lining and complimentary accented waist, as well, slightly sheer cap sleeve, cut to compliment the curves you were not meant to hide. Comes as well in off-white.
 
 
 
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Feeling like a goddess in disguise? No disguise here. This gorgeous vivid green strapless print, has a sheered top flowing down to a complimentary, yet contrasting border. Also in two other prints.
 
 
 
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Light as air! Doesn't this remind you of an angel walking on air? So light, gossimar, flowey with the dreamy flower print. Ahh... just so pretty! Another functional piece that will not see much closet time. Top it off with a jean jacket or cardigan or nothing at all.
 
 
 
Now, last but by all means not least, I would like to introduce you to both my fashion muse and the dress of the day (or perhaps the season). My work associate Sue, Plum's Inventory Manager,  is sporting what is 'now' referred to as the magic dress. Sue turns heads wherever she goes but I'm fairly sure this ensemble will be in the new version of the Guiness book of records for being the only dress which promted someone to remove their earbuds to make a comment. YES SOMEONE REMOVED THEIR EARBUDS to comment on this dress. Wouldn't you? I'm sure I would. I think the tally was 5 people stopped to make a comment. That's exceptional. Therefore if you're looking for a 'double take' dress, this might well be the one. Channelling her inner 60's girly girl, finishing it off with a wonderful crinoline for added length and texture and just the right strappy pumps Sue struggled to make it to work. Remember, you'll need to leave extra time for your 'comment' time with this dress!
 
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If at this point confusion has set in, Plum's experienced staff can assist in locating THE dress for you. Sometimes our bodies change with time and life events; babies happen to our bodies. We love babies but they certainly can reshape things. Plum staff can easily assist in helping to uncover what works best to compliment your current lifestyle and body as it is now... show you shapes that work, lines that compliment or discover something new about yourself.
 
And don't forget about this fantastic promo. That and these stunning styles should be enough incentive to revitalize your relationship with your closet.
 
Yours in fashion passion
 
Suzanne M
 
Plum Promo: From May 15 to May 25, spend minimum $100 (before taxes), you will qualify for a $15 off a future puchase coupon. Coupon will be emailed.
 
 
 
Suzanne's picture

When is a t-shirt not a just a t-shirt? When it has another purpose. No, I don't mean wiping up counter stains or your children's faces. Don't you love dual purpose? I do. I love anything that has more than one use. Not only lovely, wearable works of art, with these t shirts, Plum will be donationg $ 2.00 from the sale of each to The Nature Conservancy of Canada.  http://www.natureconservancy.ca.  An organization who's driving force is to preserve our natural resources, and has done so for over 50 years.  Artwork on these gorgeous, exclusive to Plum t shirts are the work of  local artist Simone Des Roches Phd, biologist and self professed naturalist.

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Graphic T's are often fun or interesting but printed on rather unflattering, manly shape bodies. Plum has produced these gorgeous t shirts, however, in 8, bright, fun, summer colors in a very complimentary A-line shape. Which can easily flow into your existing wardrobe, or top up a pair of shorts or capri's. Or for more of a boho look, a long flowy skirt. Made of cotton with just a hint of spandex, expands the wearability factor.

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These captivating, beautiful and almost mystical images, depict 4 either extinct, extirpated or threatened Canadian species. Free hand drawings so detailed, one can almost see the motion of the pigeon (for instance). Great conversation starters!

Beautiful and meaningful; more than one would normally expect from the average t shirt. Feeling good about your clothing choices, could not be much easier.

For more details on these captivating drawings, click the thumbnail below.

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The T's can be bought in Plum stores, or on our web store.

Suzanne

 

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Suzanne's picture

 

I love the fashion business but it has changed a great deal since as a young girl I first dreamed of having my own store.  One of the saddest events for me occurred on April 24th of 2013 when the Rana Plaza collapsed killing and injuring thousands of innocent garment workers in Bangladesh.

It took months for leaders in the “fast-fashion” world to help those that were struck by tragedy that day, and some companies have done nothing.

At the same time there are many companies doing a great deal to improve conditions for their workers in these countries but the result is higher costs for their garments. 

I know fashion is important to us.  It adds to our self esteem, our creativity and our image in society.  But it should not be at the expense of people in other parts of the world just so we can have it at the lowest possible price.

As consumers and small retailers, we cannot fix all the unsafe buildings, underpaid workers and child labour abuses, but we can take responsibility for what we purchase.  If we purchase clothing that is so inexpensive that we have no guilt about throwing it away after a few wears, it was likely made at the expense of workers in countries such as Bangladesh.

Today, when we remember the 1133 workers that died, let us also remember that we have some alternatives.

  1. Shop with intelligence. Purchase what fits you and will last for more than one season.  Try to resist a purchase simply because it is such a great price.  You may find you spend less if you buy for quality.
  2. Be conscious of where your clothing is made. Not everything made abroad is made to be the cheapest price.  Look for quality made clothing.  If you don't know how to determine this, ask the sales associate.
  3. Vote with the power of your wallet because it will directly influence the actions of corporations.

If we care as much about what we put on our bodies as what we put in our bodies we will find alternatives to cheap clothing. There is a great deal of information available on the web if you want to educate yourself. (see below).

Katie O'Brien

Co-owner and buyer at Plum Clothing Ltd.

 

More information on the Rana Plaza Tragedy:

http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/episodes/2013-2014/made-in-bangladesh

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/apr/20/rana-plaza-bangladesh-disaster-anniversary

http://www.businessoffashion.com/tag/rana-plaza

http://www.businessoffashion.com/2014/04/op-ed-rana-plaza-disaster-marks...

Rana Plaza collapse in Dhaka, Bangladesh | Source: Flickr

Rana Plaza collapse in Dhaka, Bangladesh | Source: Flickr
 
Katie's picture

Start counting down the days! Spring break is nearly here. Whether you’re flying to exciting Disneyland or escaping to tropical Hawaii, here are three smart buys for your suitcase:  

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The Simone printed maxi dress is perfect for when you’re lounging at the beach--just toss it on over your bathing suit. (The shirred top makes it easy.) Then, dress it up for dinner by swapping your flip-flops for a sandal and adding a bohemian necklace and ring.

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Tour the theme park in this Plum polka dot tunic. Worn over the white Mavi boyfriend jeans, the colour combo is nautical and fresh. The tunic also doubles as a sheer cover-up when you’re relaxing poolside at the hotel.

Even though you’re headed south, don’t forget about the evening breeze (or the air-conditioning). Kersh cardigans come in a bright spring palette and can be easily slung over the shoulder for when it gets chilly on the patio.

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If you're not heading for warmer climates this month, start preparing for spring now that we have a limited-time coupon (and before these items sell out)! 

Shop between March 6 and 23rd with your coupon and save $20 dollars off a purchase of $95 dollars or more (excluding jewellery). Plus, if you spend more than $150 dollars, we'll send you a $10 dollar coupon in April!

Get some ideas by checking out the early spring arrivals here.

What is the one piece of clothing that you won’t travel without?

Image  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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