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Submitted by Suzanne on Tue, 12/11/2018 - 18:06
PTCHA!!! I can hear you say! You've just spent weeks trolling around shops to find the perfect hairbrush, sweater, garden tool, tire pump with coffee holder (seriously!) and I tritely say this? Yes, I realize this is the ultimate gift giving season, however, think back to the last get-to-gether...do you recall someone NOT bringing a gift? Probably more recall the fun time spent together! After all, more and more we're realizing our planet has enough 'stuff'...we could build another planet with the discards. However, sometimes it's just about finding THE right thing for that one person that was your everything all year, or even just in that moment when you were sure you'd fall apart! Or.....maybe that person is you! I love 'me-gifting'! I'm always appreciative! And it's always perfect!
   
One pair of show stopping pants, four different takes. Yes, they're bold, yes they're bright...but maybe that reflects you, OR they can also be toned down slightly. Note how the pink just adds a bit of softness! Great contrast. These would be a fantastic option for New Years eve!
Cream snowflake sweater (mocha/cream) $99
Cream sheer 2 pc blouse (light peach) $129
Cream fuzzy cardigan (pale peach) $119
Cream print top (black/blue or blush prints) $59
Cream gold pants (black/gold) $119
Ok there are several reasons why scarves are the #1 gift given to women...Ok I made that up, but if it were true, I'd say scarves would be near the top. They don't go out of style, one size fits all...and in a pinch can be converted to a shawl or even a table runner! (I've actually done that). Head into a Plum location and see the selection.
Cream mixed print scarf $49
worn with
Soya Concept lace blouse (off white) $65
 
Ok back to dressing you....note how this is one dress, but the jewellery just changes the tone! I happen to be a huge fan of arm candy! Love piling on the bracelets so when I gesticulate, EVERYONE notices (just kidding). Add some stunning pieces that catch the light; Plum always has a great array of accessories to compliment any outfit.
Jewellery sold in store only and varies by store
This I saw on a few staff at the Christmas party this year and noted that it's far more interesting in person than the image presents. Here they've paired it with a frill neck blouse which is just such a perfect compliment. The black on pink really produces a lot of drama!
Cream poncho with lace (black/peach) $49
Cream sheer 2 pc blouse (light peach) $129
 
This cardigan is everything of the season all rolled into one....glittery, cozy and eye catching! Perfectly co-ordinated above with a simple black background; a real Audrey Hepburn feel. Although if you prefer to infuse a bit of silver jewellery, head into a local Plum location and see the selection for yourself.
Soya Concept lurex cardigan (storm grey melange) $125
Jewellery sold in store and varies by store
If I could buy one more thing for myself, I'd buy myself some time...as there barely seems to be enough time to check the clock! But I have children that believe in the magic of Christmas (and Santa), and so I do purchase gifts. However, I do my best to buy or create long lasting and really wanted gifts. And what warmed my heart this year was the final wish item on my youngest child's list to Santa...'PEACE ON EARTH'. Truly a gift that we would all joyfully receive!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
"Guilt: the gift that keeps on giving!" ~ Erma Bombeck
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Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 12/05/2018 - 15:41
Arguably, December hosts the most parties and festivities of all the months. So many that it feels like sleeping in my festive attire is the most efficient, time saving option. But my 20's are long gone so not only do I change, I also go home! I've come so far! There are so many types of events, daytime, work/party, family, charity, church...it means that we might struggle to find 'one' garment to suit all. Although, with a few tweaks (not twerks), it might be possible. The voice in my head says 'One sparkly, festive outfit? Really?' Sounds like something I say to my children... 'you may only have one'! But perhaps because we're grown ups, we 'can' have more than one!
 
Most often associated with wealth and luxury, velvet is an often chosen textile for garments at this magical time of year. Thought to have been first produced thousands of years ago, this unmistakably, richly woven pile is thankfully within reach of all of us now, unlike hundreds of years ago when it would have been most likely produced for only nobility. I think we do feel somewhat like aristocracy when we wear it. Either of these great dresses are proving to be quite popular because of the marriage between, texture, design and fit.
Another often chosen fabric choice at this time is lace. It's specific origins appear to be disputable, but it did have some of it's beginnings with the church, clergy and then hundreds of years later, Queen Victoria was married in lace, thus instituting an unstoppable trend. Hundreds of years ago, the delicate ornamental web-like patterns were made using silk, linen and even gold threads. Needless to say it represents a certain elevation of style. This dress is simply a classic!
Accessories, of course, at this time play a huge part in assembling an outfit. Kimonos can count as an accessory or, worn in spring as outerwear. No matter how you look at it, Kimonos have evolved into a staple. Add to this the refreshing, yet elegant look of silver and you've created an image that's stylish, but also can be easily changed to daytime casual with one simple coordinate change.
All jewellery is sold in store! Head into a Plum location near you to find the drool worthy selection!
This little top, offers a lot of pizzazz and fashion forwardness! (is that a word? It is now). The Wall Street Journal stated that 9 out of 10 companies hosted a holiday party in 2012. Over 25% were held in the office. Which means, you may not have time to change...a lot. Thus, wearing something that can easily convert from work to wow, is probably as easy as pulling up your hair and adding some more engaging accessories.
Jewellery is sold in store only and there vast selection to suit every jewellery obsessed fan!
Another option, above this very soft, comfortable knit top, when worn off the shoulder, paired with these, edgy, coated, leather look pants, clearly provides a more sexy, downtown look. OR, wear it with a wide belt and a skirt or palazzo pants and a necklace. And for daytime or any time, covering the shoulders and pair with jeans and a blazer.
Untangling strings of lights that no longer work, getting a drive home from your boss from the office party, and visits from crazy relatives that you haven't seen all year......yes, that's the Christmas season....oh and eggnog...let's not forget the twelve days of eggnog!!!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
The office Christmas party...when you get to hang out with the inebriated equivelent of Wikileaks! (just don't let that be you)!
Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 11/28/2018 - 13:07
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UNTIL SUNDAY DECEMBER 2 - SALE ITEMS ARE AN EXTRA 25% OFF...
NEED I SAY MORE?
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I.C.Y.M.I. (in case you missed it), acronyms are the new pencil! Our time so limited, we can't write full sentences. Imagine trying to explain this (and Twitter) to a distant ancestor, plowing a field, dawn to dusk. So, what was once secretarial shorthand, is now common language. Be right back is condensed like an accordion to BRB, IDK means I don't know; other favourites include LOL, OMG or TBH (to be honest); And did you know, everyone's old favourite...O.K. said to originate from a tongue in cheek piece in an early 19th century Boston Morning Post article on grammar, referring to 'oll korrect'? So, in my mind jumpsuits are like the acronym of the wardrobe. Why bother with a top and pants or skirt when one garment will do. However, perish the thought they should be relegated to casual times or don't represent fashion. S.F.Y. (see for yourself-I made that up)!
 
I tend not to be the sort that goes for one garment, rather prefer to construct a look. However, one can certainly create a look with jumpsuits. On the left a more casual, layering with the turtleneck, a scarf worn as a sash, and a pendant. On the right a more upscale chic, paired down look, with a simple necklace, understated earrings, a clutch and dynamite, sexy shoes.
Lani capsleeve jumpsuit (black, teal or mocha) was $75 now on sale at $52 (with an additional 25% off - it will be $39 until Sunday-IN STORE ONLY AT THIS PRICE)
   
If you prefer a bit of coverage, here are some ideas. For a somewhat more exotic look, try adding a kimono. If you bought one of the above shawl/vests or a jacket during one of the recent promotions, try the jumpsuit with one of them. With the shawl/vest an idea is to close it up and belt it. And the open front jacket adds a slight bit of definition to balance the bottom of the jumpsuit.
Wasabi + Mint criss cross back, cropped jumpsuit (black) $75
KW floral print kimono (black) $59
KW oriental floral kimono (black) $69
Look by M basic shawl vest (8 colours) $69
Soya Concept drape front jacket (ruby) $95
This is such a super soft, cuddly version, perfect for hanging out, running errands or....cuddling!! Perfectly layered with the turtleneck and if heading out, add a jean jacket and scarf. Yes I realize that it means practically disrobing for bathroom trips, but it's a worthwhile payoff for the ease of movement. And let's face it...it's just super cool and easy looking.
Double Zero fuzzy jumpsuit (black or heather grey) $69
 
Another layering option if seen recently is adding a top or sweater thus resulting in a look of top and bottom; your jumpsuit has now just converted to pants.
Wasabi + Mint cross front jumpsuit (black or burgundy) $69
B.Young flower sweater (purple/orange) $99
It feels as though we're moving in a direction as a society of 'less do, more think and talk'. I envision a time in the future, we'll have devices that can scratch our noses for us, because, you know, our hands are just too busy typing. As you might have guessed, I'm rather a big fan of words; written out in full on paper, on a screen, in a book or even on a clothing label...ETC!!
TTFN
Suzanne M.
"I may have grown up in the age of Aquarius, but I'm growing old in the age of the acronym" ~ Roy Peter Clark
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Submitted by Suzanne on Tue, 11/20/2018 - 17:12
IT'S FRIDAY FOR 4 DAYS--BLACK Friday that is....head into a nearby Plum location and check out the deals...such as 20% off all jewellery and 40% off regular priced suit jackets! (NOV.22 TO 25)
Why do we need a new black? After all, it's the happiest colour I KNOW! In fact, I couldn't love it more if it was blacker! But why do we need something more new than black? Lets go back a few decades when black was the go to colour for those considered 'in' and 'chic'! Designers, however, felt it was time for another colour that would grab our attention. The phrase was then stolen from, '40 is the new 30' and so on. So what is the new black!? YOU! Yes, whatever YOU choose. Put 'it' on, 'YOU-IFY' it and THAT my beautiful friends, is the new black! Now go and find your new black! (I'll be happy to help! :)
Listen Beyoncé, one way to step up the game on your outfit, is put a blazer on it! Regardless of what it's worn 'with', the jacket gives the look a more stylish appearance. So, if you're looking to help your jeans look a bit more fashion than function, this is a good option. And all regular priced suit jackets are 40% off from Nov.22-25.
Soya Concept drape front jacket (ruby)
While this is not part of the sale, I couldn't help but show it. Gem colours bounce in and out of popularity but now is an excellent time to go for something very much not black. And in the form of a turtleneck, you cannot go wrong with this investment. Dress it up, dress it down or simply layer it for warmth. This is such a rich, regal hue that works so well with opulent jewellery!
Long sleeve turtleneck (6 colours) $36
This very in Spencer + Shaw dress is part of the sale that starts on Thursday (oooh AND select Spencer+Shaw dresses are 50% off). The beauty of this dress is that, it's edgy, fresh and unique and it really doesn't cry out for accessories. BUT if you feel compelled try some really equally bold earrings! All jewellery is 20% off from Nov.22-25
Spencer + Shaw tie front dress (black)
 
OH, and let us not forget accessories. Sometimes a scarf can go a long way taking a great outfit to the next level of style and giving your look a unique flavor! This lovely little compact faux leather bag will keep you organized, AND it comes in 4 other colours. Scarves, purses and jewellery are 20% off Nov.22-25! Which means you can take a simple LBD and make it into something very you!
KW rose print scarf
Faux leather handbag (6 colours)
I have heard 'giving back is the new black' - 'kindness is the new black' - 'grey is the new black' - 'love is the new black' or my personal favourite 'old is the new black'. I don't know, I just don't think black ever gets old. Not in my life!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
If 40 is the new 30 and 50 is the new 40, why can't Thursday be the new Friday? ~ Pinterest (I think it is this week at Plum :)
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Submitted by Suzanne on Wed, 11/14/2018 - 14:36
With so much global turmoil, any small, joy producing moment is something to embrace! Enter the season of glad tidings. Although life does not suddenly become a Normal Rockwell painting just because the calendar changed, there is still a glimmer of hope found in all of the decorations, get-togethers and all the adverts that erupt into festive wear (my favourite part). The bubble over my head usually says 'um, I'd wear that year round!' BUT that's just me. Maybe you'd like something fresh and fun but also chic and refined. Plenty of options at Plum from...to-heck-with-the-Christmas-tree-let's-just-decorate-me style...to... the sleek diva look and everything in between! Let's find a little something to light up your heart!
  
While mauve or purple is not a colour I tend to be drawn to, this top just stopped me in my tracks. It checks all the boxes, sexy, refined, edgy and unique. And worn with this exquisitely embroidered kimono you can't go wrong. And it's wonderful when you find pieces that don't end up deeply stored in your closet until next year. Very transferrable into multiple other seasons!
Talori embroidered kimono (black or burgundy) $98
Naked Zebra button front cami $55
 
 
I picked out four tops that I think are worth exploring. At this time of year, when the events and parties begin, what's required is not so much black tie, but more elevated but that can work with accessories. The top left sweater is all about texture and creates a feel (pun intended) all on it's own or would play against a vibrant statement necklace. The top right speaks for itself with it's bright jewel tone and bow tie front, a very festive, vibrant colour. Lace is always a go to, yet for the fun of it, one can button it up, add a necklace, mix it with a jean jacket, pencil skirt and flats for an easy going look. And the Audrey Hepburn look mock neck, while a basic, makes a wonderful item for supporting a fabulous necklace or accessories or even pulled back hair with outstanding, eye catching earrings.
Cream cowl neck fuzzy sweater (peach) $99
Soya Concept tie neck lyocell knit top (black or blue) $55
Soya Concept lace blouse (off white) $65
Soya Concept mock neck sweater (black) $59
And this top is a nice diversion from the usual of the season with a seeming angelic wingspan; looks fantastic paired with the crop pants. And I must say this stunning little top is rather hard to describe but I'll try. The top part is an overlay and the sleeves (the wingspan), are half with a half stretch cuff. Absolutely heavenly created blouse with a smouldering, autumn colour pallet.
Soya Concept double layer print blouse $69
One of my absolute favourites this year, the molten lava coloured pants and lightly dusted with sequins, sweater. Super stretchy pants with back zip and slight side slits. All that glitters isn't gold....sometimes it's just you that glitters!!
Cream double layer knit top $99
Cream gold pants (gold) $119
 
For many, while co-ordinates provide great options, it's all about the dress. The above blue velvet just sets the season so perfectly. Either glam it up with a fabulous necklace, maybe a long drop, crystal necklace or simply a pair of dangling earrings.
Kaffe lace insert dress (blue) $119
I'm including a display from one of the stores, as they have very well shown how easy it is to pull together a party look with the right components, which combines your personal style with the type of event. Play it up or play it down. I love how pink has emerged and rivals black as a possible colour option for the season.
"You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things, a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights!" ~ Maya Angelou. To which I say...pour me a big glass of red and let's get to work on those lights!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M. ... read the full post and reader comments
Submitted by Suzanne on Thu, 11/08/2018 - 13:46
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Grab this great deal, while quantities last - Until November 12 - $49
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9 colours
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can be worn 3 different ways
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non sized
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seasonless
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Let's all grab a handful of $ 20 bills and set fire to them. You're thinking I've taken leave of my senses, I'm sure. Probably I have, but really, sometimes when we buy three garments, when one will do, it seems like we are throwing away cash! This fantastic vest, not only is fashionable, but also functional. (I'm all over that one!) In addition to that, a major retailer is selling the same one for over double the price. So throw something else into that mini bonfire instead, get out the marshmallows and have a look at this great convertible.
To begin with, these are the different ways to wear your new 3 in 1 garment. Strikes me that it's a great garment for travel as clearly we want to carry less.
Look by M shawl/vest 9 colours $69 until Nov. 12 $49
There are really so many ways to fashion this garment. Top diagram shows the different ways it can be converted but what to wear it with? I can't think of anything it shouldn't be worn with. Also adds an extra layer for warmth and layering at this time of year is key.
Look by M shawl/vest 9 colours $69 until Nov. 12 $49
Check out some bold ways one of Plum's local stores have put together some looks using contrast, bright colours and accessories. Dip into one of the locations and you'll find far more ideas and expert assistance.
Look by M shawl/vest 9 colours $69 until Nov. 12 $49
When we say 'convertible' does the image of 'Thelma and Louise' blasting down the free open highway with wild abandon in a 1966 Ford Thunderbird come to mind? Of course it does. Saving money on your favourite fashion is the same feeling, however, with this convertible...Brad Pitt is not included...sorry!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
"When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it" ~ Henry Ford
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