The actual saying is 'less is more' clearly....however, downsizing, purging or parting with things, I don't excel at. Though, I do regularly look for creative ways to reuse, remake or surgically change a garment because of a favoured pattern or fabric. Trends now change faster than Usain Bolt, but we can still find ways of making things fresh and interesting or maximizing a garment. For instance, I discovered I can turn a dress into a skirt by adding a top and a belt or, for that matter, a maxi skirt into a strapless dress. And when traveling, the more you can be creative or squeeze out of one garment, the less you have to carry.
One of the most creative ways I've seen a garment transformed unexpectedly was a sweater, such as above, worn as a skirt. Let's just say, you're on a trip, you need to wear something a bit more one tier up from jeans or casual pants. Pull the sweater down to your waist, tie the sleeves around the back in a bow. Voila, you now have a skirt. Otherwise, a sweater such as the one above transforms to different types of events based on what it's worn with, just as is. A bit more upscale? Add a blingy necklace, pencil skirt and heels and maybe a belt. Slow easy weekend? Just throw on your favourite jeans.
This adorably, sexy, sweet tunic/dress needs no changes or embellishments, let's face it. All it needs is you and your own take on what should go with it, footwear, shawl, sweater, tights, boots...beaded headband or maybe a flower fascinator...where you take this I'm sure will be great. So pretty, so fresh, so spring!
One of my favourite, ultra convertible garments. Can serve as an over piece, like a jacket, can be worn as a dress as noted above, or worn as a long tunic with tights, accessorize as you please, but the bonus, is the elegance of tencel.
I've seen button up cardigans transformed everywhere from a cowl neck scarf to a skirt and back up again as a sleeveless top. Very creative indeed. However, for me, it's a cardigan...you know, where you put your cold arms!! (lol). However, if you're on a tight budget, by all means, there is no rule that says you can't wear it some other way.
A frequent, recent choice of mine is a basic dress. Mainly because if I want to break up the look, I throw a top on and maybe a belt. Or, if the top is a bit too sheer for my liking, the dress beneath serves two purposes, coverage and layers. Saving me from having to purchase a skirt. And at this time of year, another layer never hurts.
I adore this look! The bright heels, with the matching clutch, the trench looking coat and a scarf...like, she just stepped off of the plane from France! Depending on the coat, the fabrication, length and of course weight, I sometimes throw them on as an inner wear jacket, as part of the ensemble.
Our relationship with garments starts pretty early. From our favourite blanket, to a dress a toddler insists on wearing daily, teenagers jeans that have to be 'just so' to those my age, who find ourselves attached to something reminiscent of our youth! And for me, aside from Plum, one of my favourite places to shop is the very back, deep crevice of my own closet. You know...where the questionable purchases were stored!
Yours in Fashion passion...
Suzanne M.
Remember, less is more...but then, if less is more, just think how much more...more would be! ~ Quote from Pinterest!
So, I've decided to venture towards this massive, white, senescent pachyderm in the room! After all, what is that and where is the Dept of Age Appropriate situated? And if there 'is' a line to cross into inappropriate I'm fairly sure, I've not only tripped, but vaulted over it at times. Yet, I respect that we often work in industries where our customers might lack faith in our judgment, should we decide to dress like Betsey Johnson while (for instance) attempting to sell burial plots to the grief stricken. That might not work that well! But, occasionally, maybe we feel like stepping out of our comfort zone and just 'trying' something fun or silly...just because we like it. Because fashion should be fun, not frightening!
I adore this coat. Absolute winner this season. Fun, bold, universally appealing colour combination, substantially heavy weight, perfect length...what is not to love? This works for anyone, of any age, from kitten to cougar!
Jumpsuits have come a long way since Elvis' time. While you might possibly pass this up deeming it to be too revealing, with a bit of creativity (as above) this can easily work from day to date! Add a whimsical top, a scarf or a distracting eclectic mix of vintage pendants.
Season after season, Bear Dance continues to entertain us with their amusing take on the t shirt. "BUT I'M OVER 50!!" you proclaim...meh, Fifty shmifty....fun has no age limits. Throw on a blazer, an infinity scarf and a pair of plimsolls and you have your weekend look.
The typical harem pant (gathered bottom) has come back as an alternative fit. Up the style function with pumps or sandals, or tuck them into boots. I typically avoid wearing the camo prints to 'meet the teacher' meetings as I like them to believe I'm co-operative not combative. Otherwise the print keeps coming back season after season presenting an alternative to florals.
Not only is this pretty much an ageless look, it's also compelling for anyone who aims for comfort as a minimum fashion requirement. A universally popular style, married with the comfort of terry, add in pockets and above the knee length and this becomes a jacket, or a dress, or a shirt. Add or subtract tights or a belt ...there are so many combinations.
Here's a top that has been a huge hit at Plum. Crosses the boundaries of casual to fashion in a very creative, yet easy going way. Doesn't distract from the smoking hot footwear you're aching to show off, rather a good balance!
When I was 20 I didn't want to look 20, now that I'm double that (give or take 10), I still don't want to look 20 either. I don't feel the need to wear tinsel in my hair or neon lipstick, and I have respect for the establishments I frequent...work, school, banks, churches, however, fashion is a fun way to express myself and when I'm 90, I presume I won't loose that. I might loose my teeth and hair but not my sense of amusement.
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.
Last blog was about staying indoors; avoiding the cold, reinventing ourselves or...just enjoying being inside and warm. What? You didn't read it? I just may never recover from that. In any case, it's probably time to venture out. The pavement is finally exposed (as will be our blindingly pale skin from the lack of vitamin D). So, just go for it, go for a walk; your body needs the blood pumping. What else gets the blood pumping? A good sale. And Plum has great end of season deals. But you do have to go into a local Plum to grab those great things that you know you missed out on! Get dressed, put on your boots and coat (or go and buy one)!
I can't say enough about the poncho craze. They're a great, functional addition to the wardrobe and can realistically span three seasons. I love layering them on top of jackets or coats or even sweaters and I must admit I wear them around the house for an extra layer.
I'm sure by now you've invested in snow tires, so it's time to make sure you also have a coat. A winter one...because we're in Canada...you know...where it's cold (we sometimes forget this on the far west coast).
Scarves just never go out of style. We pack them away for the next winter, then gleefully pull out our favourites again when the season suits of course. Plum has such a luscious variety of scarves; the price is right now to stock up.
If you're in search of a good basic sweater, look no further. Super soft, long in length (not tunic length but long enough to cover the bum and keep it warm), side slits, 81% cotton, great to belt or wear a necklace with and comes in 6 great fall colours. AND it's an excellent deal.
Kersh crew neck sweater (6 colours) was $59 NOW $29
I'm sure I'm not the only one staring longingly out the window in anticipation of the spring and higher temperatures. But in the words of Thomas Edison "Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work". Come to Plum, no overalls are required.
'What's in a name' said William Shakespeare...is this a coat or a jacket...'that is the question'! (ok maybe not the coat/jacket part). Upon feasting my eyes on this, my first thought...'it's a jacket'. However after deliberating, and a quick poll..I discovered...it really depends. Is the deciding factor the fabric content, the length or something else entirely? What you call it and how you wear it are they related? If you call this a coat, you'll wear it over your outfit, if you call it a jacket it's potentially 'part' of the outfit. Looking for ways to expand your wardrobe...consider using your outerwear as part of the ensemble. Think outside the box (or outside the coat).
The drape front collar is such a chic trend. Lending a great air of elegance and creativity to a garment. This coat was a huge hit in the office when everyone spotted the first cut! Generous pockets, crepe texture and a wonderful little gathering in the back for definition. And then of course, there's the yummy, warm, neutral colour, easy to infuse into any outfit. This is a must have piece; perfect for many different seasons.
Blazers are a staple of our wardrobes now. They've gone from the office to the weekend so seamlessly...worn with jeans, skirts, dresses...no limits...and great for layering. If it's needed as outerwear, underneath add a lightweight cardigan and a scarf if the temperature drops.
Perhaps you prefer the classic Inspector Clouseau style trench (with a bit more sex appeal of course)! Button down, tie front, cotton/spandex blend. Worn as outerwear, over a cardigan, a jean jacket or a blazer...a great lightweight layer to peel off when the sun beams down.
You're dying to know what the poll results were aren't you? Well I'm going to tell you anyway...it was a landslide, the majority of the voters in my miniscule poll voted for COAT. Call it what you will, but the main thing is...wear it your way!
