5 Chic Ways to Wear Sleeveless Dresses After 60

This season, don’t be intimidated by a sleeveless dress—even when you’re over 60 👗. It’s less about covering up and more about styling smartly. The goal isn’t to hide your arms; it’s to create balance, softness, and a focal point that feels like you.

1. Rethink your layers (they should work with you, not against you) 

Not all cover-ups are created equal. A bulky cardigan can actually make your profile look heavier than it is. Instead, go for lightweight, fluid layers that move with your body.

An unbuttoned shirt, worn open or loosely tied at the waist, adds shape without weight.

If your dress is midi or maxi, a longer caftan creates a beautiful, elongated line. A hip-length caftan over a shorter dress can also work—it creates a layered, styled effect. Just avoid having both pieces hit at exactly the same spot, which can feel a bit flat.

2. Choose necklines that redirect the eye

 

Think of your neckline as your secret styling tool. A square neckline tends to emphasize the shoulder and upper arm area, while deeper V-necks or asymmetrical cuts naturally pull attention upward. These shapes elongate your neckline and bring focus to your face rather than your arms—effortless “misdirection” in the chicest way.

 

3. Use layering underneath (yes, really)

Try a blouse or shirt under a simple dress to add a polished layer. Alternatively, adding a lightweight, mesh-like underlayer in a tone close to your dress can be a game changer.

This works especially well with dresses that feel a bit too bare on their own but don’t need a full jacket or wrap.

For a casual look, a simple tee or crop top under your dress still looks more streamlined than a heavy cardigan.

  

4. Add structure with a cropped jacket 

 

For an easy, everyday solution, add a short jacket over a maxi or midi dress. The relaxed look of a denim jacket over a summer dress keeps your outfit casual and fresh, while a tailored version instantly elevates it. Cuff the sleeves to keep the look light.

A shorter length defines your waist and keeps your proportions balanced—no drowning in fabric here.

With a longer jacket, rely on softer fabrics that flow and move with you, or tailored cuts to avoid a boxy look.

 

Bonus tip: highlight, don’t hide 

Instead of focusing on what you want to cover, think about where you want the eye to go. A soft glow on the top of your arms (a little luminizer works wonders) can make skin look radiant rather than something to disguise. Pair that with a bold necklace or statement earrings near your face, and suddenly your whole look feels intentional and polished.

At the end of the day, sleeveless dresses aren’t off-limits—they just need a little styling finesse. And honestly? Once you find the combinations that feel right, they’re one of the most comfortable, elegant pieces you can wear. 

Transiton to Spring Fashions

As we move from crisp early-spring mornings to those first warm afternoons, transitional dressing becomes a little art form. This is the moment when sweaters meet linen, boots move to sandals, and colour quietly shifts from winter’s depth to spring’s optimism.

The latest palette from the Pantone Color Institute for Spring/Summer 2026 makes that transition especially fun, blending expressive hues with soft, grounding neutrals that work beautifully between seasons.

"this season—the real question is “what speaks to you?” Leatrice Eiseman

Celebrate contrast: bold shades that energize your wardrobe paired with calming neutrals that keep everything wearable. Designers are mixing vibrant colour with familiar tones to encourage personal expression while still feeling timeless.

The key is balance—exactly what transitional fashion is all about. 

 

Soft Neutrals: The Calm Foundation

Transitional wardrobes always start with versatile neutrals, and this season’s palette delivers plenty.

Think creamy White Onyx, warm Angora, earthy Coffee Bean, and fresh Sage Green—colours that feel light enough for spring but grounded enough to carry over from winter. 

These pieces create the quiet base that lets brighter spring colours shine without feeling overwhelming, layering easily for changing weather. Try a fresh blend of rich Alexdrite and Chocolate.

Romantic Pinks & Lilacs: A Gentle Seasonal Shift

Spring wouldn't be spring without a little romance. This season, soft pink tones like Dusty Rose and Tea Rose bring a feminine touch that feels fresh yet sophisticated. 

These shades bridge the gap between winter’s deeper tones and the brighter colours of summer. 

Style tip: use these lighter tones to update your winter greys, or try a fresh look with white jeans. opt for flowing fabrics to keep the romance in your day.

 

 

Ocean Blues & Jewel Tones: Colour With Depth

If you love colour but prefer something polished rather than pastel, look to rich hues like Marina blue or the teal-toned Alexandrite.

They’re perfect for transitional dressing because they still feel slightly moody—ideal for those unpredictable spring days.

Included here are your favoriet denim trenches, denim blouses with feminine collars, denim bombers and swing jackets… denim is in creative silhouettes and paired with more denim in a variety of washes and weights.

 

The Transitional Styling Trick: Colour + Layers

The secret to mastering transitional fashion isn’t buying a whole new wardrobe—it’s learning how to layer colour.

A simple formula for Spring 2026:

Neutral base + soft colour + statement shade

Example:

• White Onyx blouse with wide leg denim or flowing skirt

• Dusty Rose cardigan

• Burnt Sienna handbag for pop

It’s easy, effortless, and perfectly aligned with this season’s palette.

Spring 2026 fashion is about joy, individuality, and a relaxed approach to colour. The palette encourages mixing expressive hues with soft neutrals so your wardrobe feels both fresh and wearable.

So as the seasons shift, try adding a hint of lilac, a splash of marina blue, or a warm muskmelon accent. Transitional style isn’t about dramatic change—it’s about those small, thoughtful updates that make getting dressed feel exciting again.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Packing for Europe this Fall

Oh, fall in Europe—it's on my bucket list - and here's some advice from our customers, and why they love it! The summer crowds have packed up, the air has that cozy crispness, and everything feels just a little more romantic with golden leaves crunching underfoot. If you’re planning a European getaway this fall, here are 5 tips to make the most of it:

1. Layer Like a Pro
Just like fall in Canada, European weather is moody—sunny one moment, misty drizzle the next. Europe’s fall weather is all about surprise mood swings, so your wardrobe needs to be flexible.  

Fashion tip: Pack a stylish raincoat or oversized blazer that instantly elevates even basic jeans-and-tee outfits. Add a patterned scarf for warmth and that Parisian “I just threw this on” vibe. Your scarf will quickly change the look of your basic wardrobe, and packs so easily.

 

 2. Embrace the Shoulder Season
Flights and hotels are way more affordable compared to summer, and you’ll actually be able to see the Mona Lisa without playing elbow hockey. Book those bucket-list museums, castles, and wine tours—you’ll get the vibe without the chaos. 

 

Fashion tip: Go for chic but comfy day-to-night looks—think wide-leg trousers with water proof shoes by day, swapped for a knit shell and kitten heels by night. It’s all about pieces that transition smoothly as you move from sightseeing to wine bar hopping. 

 

 

 

3. Follow the Fall Festivals
From Oktoberfest in Munich to truffle fairs in Italy (who knew it was a thing!) and wine harvest celebrations in France, autumn is festival heaven. Build your itinerary around one or two of these—you’ll get authentic culture and amazing eats. 

 Fashion tip: Lean into cozy-yet-polished pieces—knit dresses, pretty blouses and jeans or easily layered trousers. Add a pop of seasonal color like burgundy or forest green (straight from Pantone’s fall palette) to stand out in the festival crowd. 

 

 

 

4. Pack Comfy, Weather-Proof Shoes

Cobbled streets + surprise rain showers = a recipe for sore, soggy feet if you’re not prepared. Did we already mention waterproof sneakers—you’ll thank yourself after that “just one more gelato” evening stroll. 

 Fashion tip: Ankle boots with block heels are your best friend—practical, chic, and photo-ready. Or try waterproof sneakers in neutral tones for a sporty-cool look that still feels city-appropriate. Pick a stylish shoe that you will wear often at home too - I recommend the Vessi for all around waterproof comfort and fashion forward style.

 

 

5. Go Leaf-Chasing
Europe puts on a stunning fall color show. Think fiery vines in Tuscany, golden forests in Bavaria, or even the dreamy parks in Paris glowing amber at sunset. Don’t be afraid to slow down and simply wander—sometimes the best memories are made between the big landmarks.

 

 Fashion tip: Go for earthy tones that echo the scenery—camel coloured denim jacket, rust knits, olive trousers. Shop fort a cozy hat (beret in Paris? yes please!) to keep warm and add instant “travel blogger” energy to your photos, it will be a souvenir to start stories when you get home.

 

 

Overall, set a basic wardrobe in co-coordinating colours, ad some pops of colour so you don't look the same in every picture. Grab that cozy sweater, a camera, and maybe a glass of mulled wine along the way—fall is when Europe feels like a fairytale.

Fall 2025 Fashion Colours & Trends

Pantone’s fall 2025 colour palette is sliding straight into our wardrobes. This season is all about cozy-meets-bold: rich, grounded shades spiced up with playful pops of colour. 

It's fun watching the shift from summer’s vibe, which was all about optimism and play  according to Pantone— juicy peaches, fresh lime creams, soft blues, and coral brights that felt like your favorite vacation memory. 

Fall flips the mood: moving into romantic jewel tones, rustic browns, and moody teals and purples. Think less spritz by the pool, more candlelit dinner with velvet cushions.

Basically, summer was your beachy cocktail, while fall is your spiced mulled wine. Both delicious, but totally different energy. 

Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s Colour of the Year, threads through both seasons, acting as the chic neutral that ties everything together.

Here’s the collection, plus how to actually wear it:

• 🍃 Lemon Grass – A zesty, floral green with a touch of citrus.
  How to wear it: Try it in a silk blouse with tailored trousers, or as a playful handbag to freshen up darker outfits.

• 🍑 Brandied Melon – A muted orange with a cozy, spicy vibe.
  How to wear it: Perfect in chunky knit sweaters or wide-leg pants — basically pumpkin spice, but chic. Have last year's spice in your wardrobe? top it with a Brandied Melon vest for a quick update.

• 💙 Lyons Blue – A luxurious teal-blue that screams sophistication.
  How to wear it: Invest in a Lyons Blue trench or blazer. It pairs effortlessly with neutrals like beige, grey, and of course, Mocha Mousse.

• 🍇 Damson – A dramatic purple with a moody, jewel-tone richness.
  How to wear it: Go bold in a solid colour dress for evening, or add depth in a print or through accessories like scarves and gloves.

• 🌸 Primrose Pink – A delicate blush that softens fall’s intensity.
  How to wear it: Pair a Primrose Pink knit with tailored charcoal trousers, or use it to balance dark brown tones.

• 🍷 Winterberry – A sultry, berry red that feels cozy and festive.
  How to wear it: Think cozy sweaters, wrap dresses, or lipstick that pulls a whole look together.

• 🌶 Chili Oil – A fiery, robust red that turns heads.
  How to wear it: Rock it in a leather skirt or statement heels when you want instant power dressing.

• 🌹 Poppy Red – A celebratory, joyful red with real punch.
  How to wear it: Use as your pop piece — a handbag, coat, or tailored suit that screams confidence.

• 🍫 Hot Chocolate – Deep, indulgent brown with comforting warmth.
  How to wear it: Your new everyday neutral. Try it in wide-leg trousers, a knit turtleneck, or buttery leather boots.

• 🥉 Bronze Brown – A burnished, golden brown that adds shine.
  How to wear it: Gorgeous in metallic fabrics, handbags, or jewelry-style accents — like a shimmery evening skirt.

And weaving through all of this? Mocha Mousse, Pantone’s Colour of the Year — the neutral that grounds everything from Poppy Red to Lemon Grass. Think of it as your wardrobe’s espresso shot. 

Trendy Pairings

• Lemon Grass + Hot Chocolate → earthy with a modern twist (think green blouse, brown trousers).

• Brandied Melon + Bronze Brown → warm and glowing for cozy knits and accessories.

• Lyons Blue + Mocha Mousse → polished cool-meets-warm combo, perfect for outer layers.

• Damson + Primrose Pink → the ultimate romantic clash of dark and soft.

• Winterberry + Chili Oil → double-red drama; use one as your base and the other as an accent.

• Poppy Red + Hot Chocolate → power with grounding; a red coat over chocolate boots.

• Mocha Mousse + Anything → your wardrobe glue. It makes even bold shades like Lemon Grass or Damson feel wearable.

  
  Right alongside all that bold drama, Pantone’s seasonless neutrals are slipping into the spotlight—classics reimagined for modern wardrobes:

• Bright White – A luminous optical white that cleanses and clarifies any look.

• French Roast – A rich, full-bodied brown with luxe, earthy elegance.

• Vapor Blue – A soft, hazy blue that cools down strong colors and adds a serene contrast.

• Crown Blue – A timeless navy-blue grounding piece—reliable, classic, and endlessly wearable.

• Mauve Wine – A muted, sophisticated plum that feels calm yet refined.

These neutrals are your style anchors—they support the richer hues while giving your wardrobe balance, ease, and a modern polish. 

Your Style Formula This Fall

Mix one bold Pantone shade + one grounding neutral + one luxe texture = instant outfit magic.

Finding your Perfect Jeans

Let’s be honest—finding the right pair of jeans sometimes feels harder than finding a bra that fits, or a perfect swimsuit. They gap at the waist, they’re too long, too short, too stiff, or they do that weird bunchy thing at the crotch (you know what I mean). But the good news? This fall’s denim trends are giving us options, and I mean good options.

Think: relaxed silhouettes, thoughtful tailoring, and just enough edginess to keep things interesting. The key is matching the trend to your body shape so you feel like you—not like you borrowed someone else’s jeans.

During the relaxing Dog Days of Summer, it's time to pull out your favorite jeans and decide if they flatter your shape or need to be recycled. 

The biggest trend? Wide-leg jeans are everywhere. They’re polished enough for the office, relaxed enough for coffee runs, and versatile enough to work on literally every body type if you style them right. How wide you go, depends on your shape. Alongside them, we’re also seeing playful details (think two-tone washes, raw hems, and pocket accents) and a major focus on eco-conscious denim.

The key is matching the trend to your body shape so you feel like you—not like you borrowed someone else’s jeans.

So, grab your pumpkin spice latte or iced matcha  and let’s break it down:

 

🍏 If you’re apple-shaped (carry more around the middle)

The goal is to create balance and length—and luckily, fall 2025 denim trends are totally on your side. Mid- to high-rise straight jeans are your best friend: they skim without clinging, giving you structure without drawing too much attention to the tummy area. Look for flat-front styles (skip heavy front whiskering or bulky pockets) to keep everything smooth.

Wide-leg jeans are also amazing, especially when paired with a flowy blouse that hits just below the hip—it creates a soft, elongated line. And if you love boot cut jeans, wear them with a long, open blazer or cardigan to balance proportions. Pro tip: darker washes with vertical seams or paneling are like an optical illusion—slimming and lengthening at the same time.

🍐 If you’re pear-shaped (smaller on top, curvier on the bottom)

Your hips deserve to be celebrated, and the right jeans will balance your silhouette beautifully. Straight cut and flared jeans are a total win—they flow over your curves and even out proportions from hip to hem. High-rise jeans also work wonders, hugging your waist and highlighting your narrowest point.

When it comes to washes, darker tones on the bottom with a lighter or brighter top are your best friend—it naturally draws the eye upward. If you’re into wide-leg jeans, choose a structured denim that drapes (rather than clings) and pair it with a tucked-in blouse or cropped jacket to keep your waistline defined. And yes, straight-leg jeans can look amazing too—just pick a pair with a little stretch so they contour without squeezing. 

🔺 If you’re an inverted triangle (broader shoulders, slimmer hips)

Your shape already brings the drama up top, so jeans can help balance things out. Wide-leg and bootcut styles are your best friends—they add a little volume at the bottom to even proportions. Barrel jeans (huge trend for fall!) also work beautifully for you because they create the illusion of fuller hips, balancing broader shoulders. Barrel jeans give shape without drawing attention to how slim the lower half is.

Straight-leg jeans with a mid-rise are another solid option as they won’t cling too tightly, and they’ll give your frame a softer, more balanced line. Try pairing them with a slightly tucked or belted top to define the waist and draw the eye inward. Bonus tip: lighter washes or denim with pocket detailing on the hips can visually “fill out” the lower half for an easy, flattering balance.

🌟 If you’re more straight-up-and-down (rectangle shapes)

Good news: 2025 is all about volume. Baggy, slouchy “puddle” jeans (yep, the hem puddles over your shoes) are still going strong. To avoid looking swallowed up, style them with a cropped jacket or something that cinches at the waist. If you prefer a cleaner look, skinny jeans are back in the mix, still going strong and can add a subtle curve to your silhouette.

⏳ If you’re hourglass-shaped (balanced curves with a defined waist)

This fall is your season. High-rise flares and wide-leg jeans are everywhere, and they balance proportions beautifully while showing off your waist. Look for styles with a bit of stretch so the denim hugs your curves without suffocating them. Dark washes with minimal distressing = instant leg-lengthening magic.

To really highlight that waistline, tuck in a blouse or go for a cropped knit—anything that emphasizes your natural shape. Hourglass figures can also pull off the returning skinny jean trend—just pair them with a longer coat or blazer for a modern update.

💃 If you’re petite

Wide-leg jeans can be tricky, but not off-limits. Just go for a mid-rise rather than super high-rise (to avoid your torso disappearing). Cropped flares are also chef’s kiss—they hit just above the ankle, showing off your shoes and giving the illusion of longer legs. Pro tip: pair with a pointed-toe boot or heeled loafer for maximum lengthening.

🌈 Denim Details to Watch in Fall 2025

• Two-tone denim: Patchwork vibes but sleeker—perfect if you want your jeans to be the outfit.

• Raw hems: Still here, still cool. Works especially well with ankle boots.

• Wide-leg jeans: The undisputed star of fall 2025—structured, drapey, and flattering on nearly every body shape, how wide depends on your height and flare.

• Eco-conscious denim: More brands are leaning sustainable, so keep an eye out if that’s important to you, Yoga Jeans are on the leading edge of this philosophy.

At the end of the day, the best jeans are the ones you don’t have to overthink. If you can sit, eat tacos, and strut a little without feeling like you’re in a denim prison, you’ve found your match.

And remember—when in doubt this fall, go wide. A pair of wide-leg jeans is the most reliable style hack of 2025: effortless, flattering, and always on-trend.

So tell me—are you team wide-leg, team skinny comeback (because yes, whispers of them are still around 👀), or team “as long as they’re comfy, I don’t care”?

 

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New Fashion Trends for Resorts

It's time to think a little less about bundling up in the cold, a little more about sipping cocktails on deck and breezing through chic ports of call. Here’s how it could flow: 

You’re standing on the deck of a sleek cruise liner, Aperol spritz in hand, the horizon glowing like a postcard. Or maybe you’ve just checked into a beach resort where the only decision you need to make is “pool or beach first?” That’s the mood for Resort 2025. It’s not just about what you’re wearing but where you’re going and how you’re living, it's the whole experience. 

Tropical Prints Get an Upgrade

Florals may be a resort cliché—but this year they’re bolder, brighter, and a little surreal. Think hibiscus explosions, oversized palm fronds, and tropical fruits splashed across swimwear, kaftans, oversize shirts, and breezy slip dresses. To ease into this trend, blend  with solid colours. Perfect for blending in with your cocktail umbrella.

Cruise-Core Chic

Nautical stripes and sailor-inspired tailoring are back, but elevated. Try crisp navy-and-white jumpsuits, wide-leg trousers with rope belts, and shirts that work as well on deck as in the yacht club lounge. Bikinis, tankinis and one pieces reflect a bolder stripe and clean colours. Cruise fashion is leaning classic but luxe.

  

Destination Dressing: Location-Inspired Looks

• Mediterranean Ports → Linen sets, gold sandals, and soft draping, don't forget accessories.

• Caribbean Hotspots → Bright crochet dresses, bold swimwear, and beach-to-dinner palazzo pants.

• Asian Island Resorts → Kimono-inspired cover-ups, natural fabrics, and elegant resort tailoring.

Each destination is inspiring capsule wardrobes that feel curated for the backdrop.

Exuberant Silhouettes

• Flowy Maxi Dresses – Easy, breezy, but with statement cut-outs or one-shoulder drapes to keep things spicy.

• Wide-Leg Trousers – Resort dressing isn’t about skinny fits; it’s all about swishy, relaxed pants that look amazing with flat sandals and strappy heels. Flowy fabrics paired with tailored tops.

• Matching Sets – Co-ordinatess are still having their moment. A printed crop top with matching wide-leg pants? You’ll look pulled together with zero effort.

Swimwear That Works Hard 

2025 swim trends are doubling down on versatility. Reversible bikinis (yes, two looks in one), sporty surf-inspired one-pieces, and strapless bandeaus with detachable halters are big. Bonus: swim tops styled as daywear with high-waist trousers or skirts. Get more out of your carry on bag escape.

Day-to-Night Flexibility

Travel wardrobes are slimming down - carry on bags call for it —versatile pieces are everything. Imagine: a light maxi you wear over your bikini in the day, then swap to strappy heels and statement jewelry for a sunset dinner. Textured one pieces are on trend this year,  pair with flowy palazzo pants for an after dinner look. Minimal packing, maximum glam.

Color Story: Vacation Glow

The palette is joyful and beach ready: Ocean blues and seafoam greens for a fresh vibe. Sunset corals and tomato reds for passion and play. Soft metallics (yes, even in the day!) to catch that golden-hour light, from shimmering swimsuit fabrics to gem encrusted sandals, this year, take your style up a notch.

So when you’re packing, remember: one bold print, one easy neutral, something sheer, and a pair of wide-leg pants are your holy trinity. 

Resort 2025 fashion is less about “bundling for winter escapes” and more about curating a globe-trotting wardrobe. It’s fun, bold, and destination-specific—think “Instagram reel ready” but also versatile enough to work across oceans, ports, and poolside lounges. Start with co-ordinates and add some jazz.

 

 

Delicious Colour of the Year from Pantone 2025

Fashion inspired by Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse ... soft browns, creamy neutrals, runway-ready styling—basically a feast for your eyes.

Mocha Mousse

PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a warming, chocolatey-brown hue that’s all about comfort, calm, and that ever-trendy “quiet luxury” vibe

 Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone’s Executive Director, calls it “sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time, an unpretentious classic,”consider the idea of harmony—Mocha Mousse is meant to embody connection, balance, and modern-day self-care.

Why It’s the Mood of 2025 ... 

Sensory and Emotional Appeal: Pantone emphasizes that Mocha Mousse triggers our senses Chocolate. Coffee. Warmth. Pleasure. A comforting hug in color ... 

Quiet Luxury & Timelessness: The “quiet luxury” trend is all about selective, elevated basics—and Mocha Mousse fits right in. It’s a timeless neutral that feels luxe without the flash (InStyleVogue) .

How to Wear It Styling Tips:

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  photo the Pretavoir Blog

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    Consider the many shades of Mocha  

    Pair mocha pants with a crisp white blouse and add a long wool coat or vest in a coordinating tone for that ultimate cozy-chic look

    .
    Try a mocha wool sweater with wine-red or gold accessories—think luxe, aspirational, romantic

    .
    Swap out your usual black boots for distressed chocolate-brown moto boots, letting the brown tones shin.

    Quick Style Guide

  • Start small: Mocha sneakers, belts, or handbags are a subtle but stylish nod.

  • Layer warmly: Rock a mocha turtleneck with cream trousers for a relaxed daytime look.

  • Go bold: Opt for statement pieces—think jumpsuits or statement coats in mocha.

  • Accessorize smart: Combine with rose gold or burgundy for that modern romantic twist.

  • Mix & contrast: Earthy and pastel colors—like corals or muted blues—actually pop against mocha’s neutrality.

  ---

  In short? Mocha Mousse isn’t just a color—it’s a whole mood. It feels warm, grounded, and quietly luxurious, a color for those who find joy in the understated. Whether it's your new wardrobe staple or just a soft accent, it’s definitely one of the most talked-about (and polarizing) shades of the yea.

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Shades of Fall 2024

While this years pallet feels familiar, and continues to embrace our natural surroundings, there is a freshness to the colours you will enjoy.

"strive for balance between the more familiar and the new and exciting, embracing longevity and seasonless style,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

 

“Functional and adaptable, they are reliable and robust, ... a strong chromatic foundation and at the same time delivering playful and energetic accents for moments of magic.”

 

Infuse red tones into this season starting with the toasty warmth of Tomato Cream, bold Scarlet Smile or the magical depth of rich Italian Plum. Each of these pairs well with denim, the neutral charcoal of Dark Gull Gray or the deeper navy of Baritone Blue.

 

Greens have moved from the bold spring shades to softer Fern and the deep teal shades of the healing quartz stone Aventurine. Both colours are easy to wear top to bottom, or mix with White Swan or Baritone Blue.

Classic Raw Umber, like the earth it's named for, ranges from soft light brown to a deep chocolate. It also balances the bolder Golden Palm and Red Orange pallet.

While very few of us can replace an entire wardrobe each season, this is the year to set aside a few black pieces and add some earthy tones that you will pull out for years to come. Don't forget to splash in a bit of fun with your wardrobe accessories too.

 
 

shades of fall: Lucite White, Fern, Adventurine, Raw Umber and Baritone Blue

shades of fall: Aventurine, Dark Gull Grey, Raw Umber, White Swan, Red Orange

Resort Style for 2024

Travel to hot destinations calls you to be bold in your fashions, both in colour and style, and pack pieces that are comfortable and easily convert into multiple outfits. Popular trends that will boost your look this year include ...

#1 Style Update for Resort and Summer 2024

Women's spring fashions embrace the elegant trouser for everyday, and the polazzo pant is our favorite update for your travel wardrobe. From semi-sheer chiffon fabrics for swimsuit coverups or a late night party, breathable krinkle fabrics for daytime, or classic linens, the styling options are endless. 

Tailor your silhouette with a bikini, crop top or off the shoulder blouse, or layer with a cami and open kimono to take you from the beach to a wine tour or evening out. The elegant flow of a looser leg style is cooler to wear, paired with tops to define your waist, polazzo pants are the ultimate dress replacement. If your soul craves a boho look, layer with a loosely flowing top or one tied at the waist. Your options are endless.

#2 Maxi Cover-ups

Continuing to be the epitome of relaxation, maxi dresses range from casual styles to formal event dresses because you can always find one that flatters your shape. Still new to resort fashion is the maxi coverup, offering simple elegance over your swimsuit from flirty open front styles to dresses that you will wear again in the summer. Fabrics range from cool cottons or linens to softly flowing chiffon or jersey that remain wrinkle free.

#3 Flirty Day Dress

Shorter summer dresses are not new, updated prints focus on florals from ditsy to bold tropicals or watercolour blends. Fresh colour combinations like sherbet and pale raspberry, soft yellow and navy, or glacier blue and pistachio will embody your relaxed spirit.
 

#4 Resort Dinner Plans

For dinner, update to fabrics with a soft sheen or solid colour like steel blue or go bold in white. If dresses aren't your favorite style try light flowing shorts with a pretty crop top. Either the dress or shorts can also double as a swimsuit coverup.

#5 Love Stripes

On a final note - this year embrace stripes. From pinstripes, to bold colour blocking or flattering stripe placement, there is a style and colour to flatter everyoe. Pastels will take you from cruise season to spring, while navy continues to play a key role in cruise and summer fashions. Happy travel season :)

Our Favourite Fall Sweaters

 This year offers a rich fall colour pallet, and nothing is better than a cozy sweater as the temperatures drop. Drop into Sand'n'Sea on Dundas St. W. early for the best selection, these won't be available on our website (sorry, they go too quickly).

From bold Molten Lava through soft Peach Caramel, this year's cardigans come in light fabrics for indoors, or heavier knits to layer for your outdoor adventures. Chicory Coffee provides a rich brown background for a fun print.

Our fabulous Dog-Walker (Blueberry) once again comes in one size that fits most, and three colours that easily layer under a puff vest for cooler mornings. Lichen Blue or deep violet pair elegantly with grey or black, but also work with your favourite jeans.

Classic neutrals don't need to be boring, try updating your look with bell sleeves or mohair inspired softness. Take your love of sweaters longer, and add a sweater dress to your wardrobe this fall. Nothing is softer or more comfortable on long work days, wear with bare legs and boots early in the season, add warm tights when the temperatures drop.

No matter which style of sweater you love, get some bold colours or patterns this fall, smile and conquer your world.

Revive your Spirit in Bold Choices for 2023

  From Leatrice Eiseman (Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute) we learn the 2023 Colour of the Year is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.

 Our New Years wish for you is to be inspired by Viva Magenta - galvanize your spirit, build your inner strength. and create a strong year for yourself.

 From fashion to home decor you will be able to surround yourself with reminders to grow your spirit this year.

And a bold beginning will be followed by strong colour choices for Spring 2023, balanced by ultra-calm tints and tones from New York Fashion Week.

Mix between colors you may already have in your wardrobe (like a soft blue) and bold juicy colours - 

Fiery Red, Beetroot Purple or an orange shade as vibrant as a juicy Tangelo or a sunflower-reminiscent shade of Empire Yellow.

Play with color to suit your individual taste, wear it head to toe, or just add a hint as your favorite accessory. 

If these bold choices make you nervous, add the very classic colours to update your closet. After the nature inspired blues, look to -

Vanilla Cream, Grey Lilac or Macchiato to add balance. They are soft shades that are lively enough to bring a smile this spring.

Stocking Stuffers and Gift Exchange Ideas for 2022

 'Tis the Season - share some happiness with those you love - little gifts of thanks or fabulous stocking stuffers! We've collected stocking stuffers for every budget ...

Keep it Under $30

Protect your kisser for just $5, or pamper your hair and skin. SunBum is a naturally sourced line of sun protection skin care, full selection in the boutique for stocking stuffers, and select items online.

online shopping

 

 

Gift Ideas Under $50

Keep it cozy outside too, with soft hats and scarves, add some gloves and sunshades for those sunny winter walks. Your inside events and visits with friends require a bit of bling to shine for the occasion.

Über-soft bamboo layers to keep everyone warm & cozy.

and for those you want to spoil ...

Recycled warmth for your favorite pooch, or Mangolian Cashmere for your fav people, don't forget to add a BrÜMate for your travels. When you want a more personal idea for the love of your life, we can help you find the perfect gift. It's a busy season for all, and you deserve some new lounge-wear for your downtime.

To make your gifting easier, watch for bonus bundles this year during our 12 Days of Christmas Promotion.

2023 Cover-up Trends!

November marks the beginning of cruise and travel season for Canadians - we plan our escapes from winter to beach climates - sometimes just so that we can enjoy the snow on our return. Swimsuit cover-ups are an essential to pack, and picking one or two that double as clothing saves room in your carry on.

Both are easy to roll up and add to your carry-on bag, pick a print that will compliment at least two of your swimsuits for more styling options. Be sure to select a fabric that will drape well and breathe, open caftans are still trending over clothing in both short and maxi styles.

Just back from Punta Cana, and these are the second most popular styles we saw. Loose legs are never too warm, and can transition from beach coverup to a dinner basic very easily.

 

These classsics never go out of styles, and so are always stocked in a variety of fabrics, lengths and colours to be sure you can use them year after year. Happy packing!

Easy Fall Layers.

We all love fall sweater weather - not just because of the warm feeling from being hugged by soft fibres - but because we are constantly changing day to day as the temps quickly rise and fall! Fall leaves on the ground, earthy soups and stews, and spiced lattes - we are drawn out for the last adventure before winter.

Combine all that with a love of travel and you don't need to go far - roadtrips to see fall colours are always a favorite. 

Pack a bag, and take an unscheduled drive ... but what to pack???

• start with basics, tank top, shell, or t-shirt

• add leggings or jeans (whichever you're most comfortable in)

• comfortable walking shoes or boots

• an oversize knit moves with you while sitting at a bistro or walking along a forest trail, and allows air flow as the day gets warmer.

  The best part of layering for fall is shedding clothing if you get too warm. Stop for lunch or discover a small downtown, then on the road again to see what's around the corner.

 

Sometimes the weather forecast is wrong, and while you hoped for a warm afternoon, the temperatures are dropping but you don't want to miss a minute of the day.

Pack a few warmer pieces so you can still enjoy the day.

Vests come in varied materials and warmth levels, from cozy heavily woven fibres to windproof puff layers.

But a scarf is the most versatile accessory this season. A light fabric just slows the breeze around your neck and adds a change of colour to your favorite sweater. A knubby texture heavier scarf is a whole new layer to keep you warm, and quickly unwrapped when you step inside.

Off you go - enjoy this season to it's fullest! Need some inspiration, try one of these drives, maybe even stay overnight ...

Lennox and Adding County, South Eastern Ontario

Drive along the St.Lawrence Parkway 

Ottawa Area 

North Hastings driving and cycling routes.

The hills around Algonquin Park, driving, walking, or cycling.

Bay of Quinte Region