lace

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!

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

 
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Boho vibes

NOTE: some items that are featured here are part of the sale, and some are new arrivals. Prices are noted or check in store for details.

One more month of official summer remains, then back to it...school, work or, as in my case...back to…um, what I’m doing now (lol).  In any case BOHO, technically speaking is short for bohemian homeless originating in the 19th century, meant to describe the unconventional lifestyle of journalists, writers and artists. The style is characterized by large floppy hats, long flowey skirts and Joni Mitchell songs. A look typically representing, free thinking, creativeness and long, lazy days of summer. In 30 days, fall will abruptly attempt to put an end to all the free thinking fun...but for now, we have a reason to look like we haven’t a care in the world.

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I think lace, in particular, can be viewed as a central part of bohemian style. Presenting an image of light, easy, fresh and vintage. The above dress can be just as comfortable at an evening out, as at the beach. As I often note, the footwear and accessories most often punctuates the look.

En Creme sundress with tassel straps (red/white) was $89 is now $69

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One of my favourite features of this dress, aside from the open weave linen and pockets, is the shoulder ties, which offers the ability to slightly adjust the length. Aside from the every day, wear-for-tasking/lack-of-conformity style, I can see this worn with a shawl, and a long pendant.

Catwalk linen jumper dress (black, denim blue, pink or white) $110

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Aside from the sweet, floral pattern, what’s lovely about this dress is the length, not too long... not too short...just right Goldilocks! If the neckline looks slightly too plunging for where you’re going, easily add a lace tank and if your air conditioned office is where you’re headed, add a jacket.

Hem & Thread spaghetti strap dress (navy/orange) was $85 is now $65

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And of course embroidery is yet another common theme. The kimono featured here is bound to be another seasonal favourite for its very light texture.

Embroidered kimono (white) $79

There is definitely a way to add elements of the boho style to your outfit without being head to toe 70’s. A little bit of lace, a hat, or an embroidered jacket.  I once went all out on Halloween as a hippy. I could very easily see from the passersby on the street, it was rather unclear if this was my usual style.  Lesson I learned? You can take the girl out of the 70’s but it’s best to leave that entire 10 years where it was, maybe grab a piece or two, but it’s in the past for a reason!

Peace...

Suzanne M

"Rows and flows of angel hair, and ice cream castles in the air, and feather canyons everywhere, I've looked at clouds that way" ~ Joni Mitchell  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Model this!

SSHHH!!!!! AN additional 20% off sale prices...until July 2nd...try not to tell anyone! (JUST KIDDING...tell everyone)...in store only!

If you're like me and have unconventional proportions, improvising and being creative, learning to sew and alter are just something you're used to. If you're still struggling with this fact, just know, It's far easier than you think to accommodate your specific proportions. And maybe you're looking for a way to diversify your style! One great, new find this season is the jumpsuit...the garment often viewed as kitschy (Elvis) or merely coveralls for auto mechanics, has made a big comeback. And we couldn't be more grateful...thank you...thank you very much!

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Often viewed as, well...boring, with few options for expanding on the look, the jumpsuit is really anything but. I've seen it worn under a great top, various types of belts to break up the colour, and worn alone (as above) or with a tank top or button down blouse. This one is comprised of rayon and linen, which thus gives it a bit of a lush, more elegant drape. If you have somewhat of a longer torso, note the adjustable straps, back elastic (and of course, pockets!). While it's presented above with very casual footwear, change the tone of the look entirely by introducing a pump, or strappy sandal. Really, much more can be done with this garment than just putting it on!

In Love midi length jump suit (black, brick or mustard) $89

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Sometimes, we just tire of the same old same old...such as black or beige pants, or heaven forbid in this heat, long pants...a nice departure from the long or the super short. Providing a bit of give and take is a bit of elastic in the waist and some very easy to coordinate colours. And tuck in your shirt or don't...I'm not your mother so, I won't be dictating your style options! ;)

M woven crop stripe pant (stripe) $89

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Apparently v necks are an excellent neckline for those of us with a lot 'up stairs' (aka:.boobs)! I love this top and I think the lace is great for everyone. The pretty floral pattern with a black background proves you can still wear black and look summery!

Allie Rose tank lace edge (black floral or ivory floral) $32

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And perhaps what you feel most awkward about is your mid section. With this mid frill, no one would have a clue about this but you (and maybe your therapist). A great pairing for this sweet, feminine top is crop pants, shorts or even a pencil skirt.

Peppermint floral print knit top (black or off white print) $45

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I can see this dress as one that one constantly reaches for, because of it's bright, summery pattern and comfortable construction. Perhaps an excellent choice for those concise in height. Ignore me, it clearly works for everyone, as we can see from the model who is, how do I put this...unabridged!

Very J mesh strap print dress (black print) $95

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The ubiquitous white shirt...classic, fresh and timeless. A wardrobe essential that goes with so many things. Worn alone just creates a lighthearted feeling, or use it as a display for your favourite accessories! And yes, you might need to iron it, but it's worth it for a nice crisp look.

Catwalk button front linen blouse (taupe or white) $89

Saudi Arabia went overboard in the 'creative' department recently at a fashion show, using drones instead of flesh and blood human beings to display some new creations. I think I'd rather sit on a sun deck and watch the laundry blow in the breeze or pay a visit to my local dry cleaners and retrieve some of my favourite things all fresh and clean. No drivers license required!

Yours in Fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

"You can be the best role model by being yourself"~Kelly Clarkson  ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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Work of Art

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS 4 DAY DRESS SALE...find yourself something great for the holiday season (NOTE: RESORT WEAR is now arriving but is not included in this promotion)
 
Who would guess, an object consisting of canvas and barely escaping decayed paint, could sell for a record 400 million dollars. The mere twenty six inches in height painting, was once owned by King Charles the First of England. Other magnificent works of art such as Jackson Pollack's romantically titled 17A (which loosely resembles the contents of my head), historically sold for around 200 million dollars. I perhaps foolishly feel there are times I'm putting together a work of art when I dress for a party. I certainly don't fancy myself resembling Mona Lisa but it's fun to think that a well assembled outfit can elicit a similar perplexing head tilt or pleasant facial expressions! As well the other $399,900,000 can be better redirected to the likes of Yemen or Syria.
 
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It's perfectly reasonable to create your look around one garment...shoes, earrings...or, of course, a dress!  I would plan my week around this gorgeous garment. This is the most empyral fabric which has a look of authentic hand made lace and a truly sensational retro 60's look and design.
 
 
 
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One word describes this look...sexy, smouldering, sultry...ok 3. The goddess type drape top portion with it's cut out sleeves and open back, creates a great choice of adding a bold piece of bling to complete the look.
 
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Move over lace, velvet is also making a play for major looks for the season. Such a simple cut but with so much ability for creativity...be it adding a long, graceful locket or pendant or great chain belt.
 
 
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Another simple design but with heaps of options for accessorizing, with a bold gem shade, complimentary neckline and comfortable, appealing length.
 
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A dress with potential to stretch into further seasons. Suitable for so many festive occasions from work parties to open house parties and beyond.
 
 
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If dresses are really not your thing and separates are, consider this as an option. Who doesn't like to do a twirl around the living room pretending to be a ballerina...ok just me I guess. Designed with pearls and small stones that catch the light, this ethereal skirt creates a fun look. Possibly pair it with an embellished graphic t, add a wide belt and roll up the sleeves or wear it with a bolero for a light hearted party look. Ballet flats, Mary Jane's or patterned boots are great footwear options.
 
 
Beauty and certainly art are in the eye of the beholder, be it an Elvis velvet framed print or a Rembrandt self portrait no one can argue what appeals most to you. And remember, when someone tells you, you're beautiful inside and out, make sure to check your teeth for lipstick! (but I'm sure you are!)
 
Yours in Fashion passion...
 
Suzanne M.
 
"I paint my own reality"~Frida Kahlo
 
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DON'T FORGET...drop into a Plum store, try on a pair of Yoga's and be entered to win a pair (until November 19).

According to an online article, a leopard's spots (coat pattern) appear to be genetic (I hope that wasn't an extensively funded study). Also, the report went on...serves the purpose of the very large feline blending into it's surroundings, thus having the advantage over it's prey...on the contrary for us females,  when sporting this divine coat. We prefer to stand out and we CAN change our spots! Heck, we can change our minds, our attitudes, our sheets, apparently even our sex!? So many more advantages (and a bit less dangerous) to being a female than a large predatory cat! Here are a few more!

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If you're on the hunt for a print coat this year, this should be the one! It's a perfect length to go with the midi, maxi and as well the mini length dresses or skirts. Great layered with a jean jacket or try them with your favourite jeans and combat boots.

ICHI coat with lightweight pile (leopard print) $149

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As soon as November hits, the events begin. This is a dress that will be a seasonal forever dress for so many reasons. Comprised of stretch velvet, easy knee length, side slit, black and a 'suits all' cut. Think about wearing it with a destroyed jean jacket and OTK boots for more casual parties, or invest in a pair of embellished pumps or the hot ankle boot trend and (as above) a velvet burnout kimono for more formal events.

B. Young velvet spaghetti strap dress (black or teal) $59

KW velvet burnout kimono (blue or purple) $59

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Looking for a little bit of attention? OF COURSE you are! Well, this is the time of year where it's not only ok but you can expect all heads turning your way. Lots of beautiful stretch lace and slight gathers at the side,  an interesting design feature.

Kaffe Claudia lace dress (graphite) $ 109

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Maybe you like co-ordinates instead...you know, they give you more bang for your buck...one day wear with jeans, another day wear with a pencil skirt or wide leg pants. Above are four fun, interesting and versatile tops that very easily go from festive season to functional daytime wear to Friday night out!

Noble Paris London New York beaded t shirt (black or white) $65

Jane Plus 1 guazy mockneck blouse (ivory or teal) $69

Noble pearls knit top (black, white or pink) $59

Cream Selena print blouse (cream/blue) was $99 now $75

This is a perfect season to 'change your spots', so to speak. A style you've been aching to try but just feel like it's, well...too much, too frivolous or not the 'usual' you? Well, who cares! Life is too short to not wear the mini, funky, tight, plush or wild. After all, no one must like what you wear, more important that they like who you are!

Yours in fashion passion...

Suzanne M.

You can change your socks, change your direction or change a diaper, but if you change your attitude everything looks prettier!   ... read the full post and reader comments

 
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