Bodacious

What’s New in November?

Lorna — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 23:28:47 +0000

Happy November, Lovelies!

Oh my, it’s such a beautiful blue sky out there! I hope you will take some time in your day to step outside and appreciate this gorgeous weather.

As always, we’ve been busy here at Bodacious…

We hosted our 2nd annual Bodacious Fundraiser/Fashion Show – having fun and raising funds for the Victoria Women’s Transition House programs and generously sponsored by Ally & Dennis: Real People-Real Real Estate.

Huge shout out to Yam Magazine for sending their photographer over for the evening!

You can check out all the pix of our beautiful models/customers on our facebook page @bodaciousvictoria (awesome shoes by Heart & Sole Shoes)

Makeup by Beautycounter

And then I thought, since I had nothing better to do with my time 😉 that George and I should move into a new apartment in James Bay – in TWO days!! I finally found the apartment that we’ve been looking for with better access for our moms to come visit us. This weekend is the big move and we’ll be leaving the Cook Street ‘hood for beautiful James Bay!

So anyway…this is just my cheeky way of segueing into introducing you to my new lifesaver LegArt leggings – now available at Bodacious Victoria and Nanaimo! They are the most comfortable, well fitting and affordable leggings EVER! In a wide and exciting variety of prints! I’m wearing them almost every day during this move/transition. At $29.95, why not have some fun on your legs?
Check out our affiliate page to shop from home!

I’ve also brought in quite a bit more Blue Sky and Parsley & Sage for fall/winter as it’s great quality, fun and a friendly price point. If you’re looking for something casual, cozy and colourful, we’ve got you covered!

Are you a Margaret Winters cotton sweaters fan? If so, there should be a new shipment arriving any day now! Watch our facebook page for the announcement or send us a note with your number and we’ll call you when they’re in.

Vancouver Pop-Up Announcement!

I haven’t forgotten you, Vancouver lovelies! and I miss you all soooo much and I’m thrilled to tell you…

drum roll please…

Bodacious will be coming your way January 23-26 at the new Delish General Store location in North Vancouver – 3130 Highland Blvd (Edgemont Village)!

I can’t wait to see you! Let me know what you’d like me to bring and sizes and I will do my best to help you out.

If you can’t wait and need your Bodacious fix NOW, check out our facebook pages (@bodaciousvictoria @bodaciousnanaimo) and let us know what you’d like – we’re always happy to ship!

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What’s new at Bodacious? So much awesome-ness!

Lorna — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 19:33:10 +0000

are you beach ready? I am!

Hello lovelies! I just returned from an amazing vacation in Greece where I was so lucky and excited to swim in the sea every day. I wore a bikini and I jumped off of a boat (several times!) into the sea. I’m probably at my heaviest I’ve ever been and really trying to come to terms with this new and bigger body of mine. I made a very conscious decision to not let this ruin my holiday and I’m so glad! The healing powers of sun, sand & salty sea were immense!

Please, please, please don’t wait for a different body to do the things you desire. Believe me, I did it for years and missed out on so many opportunities.

Bare your arms (if you want to), wear that dress, jump in the lake, go for the bike ride…If you desire it now, you deserve it now!

Inspiration…

I know Bodacious is about selling clothes but it’s even more about being kind – to ourselves and to each other. I think we all need a bit more kindness in our world so I thought I’d share this with you.

The world is definitely better, richer and more beautiful because YOU are in it!

fashion! we have that too 😉

Both of our stores are filled with some of the most beautiful fashions ever! Introducing some new lines including elemente clemente from Germany & April Cornell. Re-stocked on Joseph Ribkoff, Fenini linens, Grizas linens & silks, Parsley & Sage, Blue Sky Kimonos…

The Victoria store is open every day and Jill and Cathryn are happy to give you a hand with any of your fashion needs.

Nanaimo is now open Tuesday thru Saturday from 11-6 and I’m so pleased to have Carol there to help you put an awesome outfit together! *have you checked out our sunhats with fun sayings on them? We just restocked on those too!

Stay tuned for event announcements including our Grand Opening of the Nanaimo store.

I’m looking at coming over to Vancouver within the next month or so to do another pop-in. Stay tuned for that announcement as well!

We really appreciate you and your support of our small business! Hope to see you soon in store.

Big big Bodacious love and hugs to you all!

Lorna, Jill, Cathryn & Carol

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Fabulous Fall at Bodacious!

Lorna — Wed, 27 Sep 2017 17:37:15 +0000

Happy September, lovelies!

I can’t believe it’s already the 26th!
I hope you had a spectacular summer and are enjoying these cooler days and nights. George and I filled pretty much every weekend exploring our new home city of Victoria and all of the wonderful places on the island. I also managed to get back over to Vancouver several times and have to say I still love that ferry trip. What an amazing place we all live in!
These days, I’m loving seeing the leaves changing colour right outside my window. And as much as we love the tourists, it’s always a bit of a breather when things quiet down in the cities and we see more of you coming back in for your new fall pieces.
We are loaded up with awesomeness at both stores! Warm cozy sweaters, beautiful fall colours and prints. Party dresses for every occasion. Scarves, jewelry and handbags…
I’ve heard feedback that it’s not always clear what product is available in which store so I’ll try to be more specific for you. Having said that, it is never a problem to send from one store to the other – just let us know you’d like to see it in person. Seriously, we’re happy to accommodate 😉

So…what’s new, you ask?
So much!

Vancouver store…

Parsley & Sage Polka-dotty jacket / Elk tunic

Chalet fleece sweater – doesn’t Lana look cozy?
Joseph Ribkoff gorgeous “lady in red” dress

Elk cover – love this!!! Zsiska bold and awesome necklace
New Sympli styles / Zsiska necklace
Rain jacket? Yes please!!! Always fun to dress anything up with gorgeous Marigold silk scarves.

Victoria store…
Parsley & Sage – up to size 3x! (will also be in Vancouver by this weekend! – shipment was delayed)

This is the nicest Parsley & Sage I’ve seen in years!

Parsley & Sage jacket / Marigold scarf
Grizas linen tunic / Elk wooden necklaces
and a fantastic year selection of Matt & Nat will be in store by the end of this week. We’ve had lots of requests for backpacks and we’ve got you covered there!

Both stores…
We are loving this new Canadian line called Buttercream! Fun and funky basics made from Bamboo! More in store…

And, as always, this really is only the tip of the iceberg! Our facebook pages for both stores are loaded with pix as stock arrives.

We’re happy to ship or hold an item for you so just give us a quick call – Vancouver 607-688-8169 Victoria 250-385-8169

Gift Certificates…
So pretty! If you’ve got a birthday or other celebration coming up, you might want to drop some hints to your loved ones! wink wink nudge nudge

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How do you shop? “Creating Change in the Changing Room”

Lorna — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 21:31:40 +0000

So excited to have this article featured in this months fabUPlus magazine! Come by the store to get your very own copy!

“Creating Change in the Changing Room by Lorna Ketler
Owner and Lead Bodacious Enthusiast at Bodacious Lifestyles Inc.

Are you someone who shops twice a year whether you need it or not?
Or are you the person who shops regularly for a little pick me up?
Incentive shopping? “I’ll buy that dress that’s a bit too small to encourage myself to be “good”.”
Do you only buy on sale? “I’m not sure if I like it, but it’s such a great deal. I’ll make it work!”.
Do you always shop with a friend or prefer a long leisurely alone shopping experience?
Do you like lots of input from store staff or are you someone who really likes to spend time perusing without a lot of chat?
We all shop for different reasons. I also know that my reasons change with the occasion, my mood or who I’m with. Spouses, family and friends can be helpful but that’s certainly not always the case! I’ve seen lot of body-image damage done through “helpful” feedback. Choose your shopping support wisely.

Maybe you haven’t really put a lot of thought into it, and that’s fine too.

What I really want to know, though, is what are you paying attention to when you shop?
We all know the rules of fashion, body types, colours! We’ve heard and read them so many times we can recite them in our sleep. We’re bombarded every day with magazine covers telling us what’s good/bad and right/wrong in fashion and with our bodies. And we’re also now happily seeing most of those rules debunked.

I’m here to plant a different seed for you…
The most important thing when it comes to fashion is how you feel when you put on the clothes. You create your style. You make it your own.
Do you know how you feel? Do you know what you desire on your body? Do you know what lights you up on the outside?

You may be a “dark winter” and have been told by a colour expert to only wear clothing in the “royal” family but you absolutely LOVE soft pastel pink. In fact, every time you put something pink on, it makes you twirl around the room and feel like a kid again. Should you wear pink? Absolutely YES, PLEASE! Are people going to worry about you breaking your “colour” rules? I’m pretty sure they’re more likely to see a joy-filled person celebrating life.

So many times we’ve had women go into the dressing room with two dress options. The first looks great, is the “right” colour and fits all the requirements on their list but their response is really only mediocre. Then they try on something they may not have thought would work but something attracted them. They hop out of the dressing room and do a little twirl. Eyes are lit up and the energy is completely shifted to a YES! Maybe the first dress will be chosen for this particular occasion (it’s nice and looks good) but we always point out the difference in response so that the customer can see it for themselves. We’re so brainwashed by the rules and told that we don’t know what’s right for us, sometimes we forget to see, feel and experience.

I can tell you what I think you should buy (and we are certainly here to help) but what I love is when you see and feel the difference. What lights you up??? Is it the feel of the fabric? Is it the way the skirt swishes when you walk? Is it that blue that makes your eyes twinkle?

Many women, especially if you wear a size 14 or above, have had at least one poor or negative shopping experience. Lack of options is brutal to finding your own style. I’ve also heard heart-breaking stories about unwelcoming, unhelpful or downright rude staff who can shut down your experience before it even starts.

One thing I’d recommend to anyone who wants to feel the difference is, find a beautiful store that feels welcoming, take some time and play. Be clear with the staff what your needs are. I love it when someone tells me that they’re happy to just look around and then asks questions when ready. I am also thrilled when someone is open to stepping out of their perceived rules and comfort zone to try something new!

“I can’t wear dresses!”. Hmmm…I know you can and you may love how they feel if you tried one on. Ditch the pantyhose and wear a comfy bamboo legging.
“I can’t show my arms!” Again, yep! It’s allowed and encouraged. The only one who is really looking and judging your arms is you.
“I really love it but I’m retired now so I don’t really need nice clothes.” I’m always challenged with this one. I get that you don’t need a suit for the office anymore but isn’t this the time that you get to really explore what your style and wants are?

You deserve to feel beautiful because you are! Find at least one special thing that lights you up and makes you feel it. Whether you’re a thrift store, consignment, big box or boutique shopper. Shopping isn’t a serious business. It should be fun and celebratory! I celebrate you!”

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Hats by Le Chapeau Rouge – Maria Curcic Millinery

Lorna — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 23:41:53 +0000

We are so excited to welcome Maria and her custom made hats to our Victoria Boutique!

“Maria Curcic has more than 25 years’ experience as a milliner. Each unique and eye-pleasing headpiece is designed using the finest materials and fabricated by Maria with a lasting attention to detail. Having provided product to fashion boutiques across Canada for many years, Maria’s quality is recognized and respected.”

Have a graduation, wedding or garden party in your near future? Come check out these gorgeous designs! And if you don’t find what you’re looking for, she’ll happily custom create based on your needs.

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New Spring Arrivals!

Lorna — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 23:30:46 +0000

New Spring Arrivals!

Hi lovelies!
It’s all about the beautiful clothes right now. And we’ll certainly take this sunshine while we can.
Enjoy and see you very soon!

Now in 2 locations
Victoria Bodacious
2-1113 Langley Street (Murchie’s building)
Victoria, BC
250-385-8169

Vancouver Bodacious
109-1535 Johnston Street (Granville Island)
Vancouver, BC
604-688-8169

Http://bodacious.ca/wp

We have a new line from Australia and it’s oh-so-pretty and feminine!
Let me introduce you to Lazybones…
Sizes up to xxl

Matt & Nat handbags!
Joseph Ribkoff
Vigorella
Grizas (Victoria store only but happy to bring over by request)
And new Carrelli jeans & jean jackets!

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NEW Year, SAME beautiful YOU!

Lorna — Wed, 15 Mar 2017 23:27:08 +0000

Wow! We’ve already breezed through half of January and are setting our sights on SPRING!

I’ve personally been busy finding a new home in Victoria and going back and forth on the scenic BC Ferries on a regular basis. My George and I are currently care-taking a floating home in Fisherman’s Wharf while we look for our next more permanent residence. It’s been quite lovely rediscovering the sights and sounds of our new city.

I’m realizing, after packing several loads of my clothes over that January will have to include some closet clearing, sorting and donating. A good goal for these short rainy days;)

As always, I’m so very thankful for my kind, caring and generous staff who so competently keep all the balls in the air at all times!

Enough about me…I hope you’re settling in to 2017 nicely. I also hope you’re remembering that YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY PERFECT AS YOU ARE, RIGHT NOW! Whether you’ve made resolutions for this new year or not, you don’t need to change one tiny bit to be the perfect you.

We are continuing to clear out our fall/winter stock to make room for the Spring fashions that are starting to arrive so we have some FANTASTIC deals for you.

– 50% OFF of ALL remaining CHALET
– 50% OFF of FALL/WINTER FENINI
– a FULL $20!!! rack

and SO MUCH MORE!

New Fenini and Joseph Ribkoff resort wear has also arrived for those heading off to warmer climes.

It seems like a good time to treat yourself to an accessory or two to brighten up these short days. We’ve just re-stocked on the Follow Me handbags (new styles) and a new line of David Jones on-trend bags and wallets have just come in the door!

Of course, we love to support women’s projects and we continue to carry the beautiful Marigold silk/cotton/linen scarves from the Vietnamese Women’s Cooperative and the gorgeous beaded jewelry from Lotusland as well as many local lines.

Gift Certificates…
So pretty! If you’ve got a birthday or other celebration coming up, you might want to drop some hints to your loved ones! wink wink nudge nudge

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Thank you, Tim Gunn!

Lorna — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 20:55:40 +0000

“I love the American fashion industry, but it has a lot of problems, and one of them is the baffling way it has turned its back on plus-size women.”

The 63-year-old added, “It’s a puzzling conundrum. The average American woman now wears between a size 16 and a size 18, according to new research from Washington State University. … There is money to be made here ($20.4 billion, up 17 percent from 2013). But many designers — dripping with disdain, lacking imagination or simply too cowardly to take a risk — still refuse to make clothes for them.”

Thank you, Tim Gunn!

And, by the way, I’ve spent 16 years of my life dedicated to doing exactly what he recommends…finding quality, well-fitting, fun fashion up to size 3X!

Every day we get feedback about our fantastic selection, quality and variety of diverse fashions.

My goal is to assist you in finding your own STYLE, not just clothes that fit.

My other priority is quality. There are many (and the numbers are growing) plus-size lines out there that are not made to last or fit well.

I want you to value yourself and know that you deserve beautiful fabrics, great fit and quality fashion to celebrate your beauty!

From beautiful and very affordable lines like Blue Sky fashions featuring buttery-soft bamboos and cottons, to the perfect lines and drape of the locally manufactured Sympli to the more body-con or classic styles of the perfect cocktail dresses of Joseph Ribkoff (also Canadian)! We also have beautiful basics from the super talented Vancouverite, Chloe Angus.

I also like to explore the funkier or edgier styles of Alembika (Israel), Grizas (Europe), Elk & Vigorella (Australia) to really encourage you to make your OWN fashion statement.

And our consistently popular Chalet and Fenini (USA) brands which have created quite a following with their delicious fabrics and comfy casual and stylish designs.

I’ll never stop searching for new, quality and innovative fashions for my awesome customers. That’s my job and I love it.

So again, thanks Mr. Gunn for your push to the fashion world to step up. I’m with you!

But also, please know, there are already fantastic designers doing the work, consistently and with quality.

I know. I’ve done my research.

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Celebrating Spring at Bodacious!

Lorna — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 20:10:30 +0000

Wow! What a difference 1 month makes. It’s so nice to see the sun shining and the cherry and plum trees blooming away. This pic is from my walk to work along the seawall. That blue sky!!!

We’ve been very busy over here at Bodacious. The Victoria pop-up was a huge success! In fact it was so great that we’re opening a second store over there on May 1!!!
Yes, Bodacious 2 will be opening at 2-1113 Langley Street, Victoria (the back side of the Murchies building). This is the same building that we had the pop-up in so if you were there, you know where to come back to. If you missed it, now is your chance to see more of us! Tell your island friends.
I will be hiring for the new location, so if you or anyone you know has a fabulous and fun personality and a strong retail background, please send a “why I’d like to work at Bodacious” letter along with your resume to bodaciouslifestyles@gmail.com
See you very soon, Victoria!

Spring is my favourite time of year for fashion and accessories! Just take a look at all the colour and fun items that are currently at Bodacious. As always, we’re getting topped up with new deliveries almost daily, so come on in and see what’s new.

Chloe Angus bamboo/cotton comfy styles!

Jeans! We’ve finally found the jean you’ve been looking for!
Higher rise, nice stretch, dark denim Carelli full length and capri jeans.
Under $100! up to size 24

Matt & Nat Spring is AWESOME! (all of our bags are listed on our online shopping page)
Check out these colourful beauties to brighten up any outfit…

add some Cahoia bling…

and a pretty Marigold scarf…

and you are set!

AND…to make room for all of this fabulous-ness, starting today, we have a

$20 SALE RACK

full of last season’s fashions! Chalet, Joseph Ribkoff, Chloe Angus and so much more! We need to make room, lovelies! We are seriously slashing prices so come and check out the deals of the season.

And, as always, so much more!

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Just eat the flippin’ cookie!

Lorna — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 19:29:54 +0000

It’s time we had a chat! I recently spent a weekend retreat with a group of amazing, talented, beautiful, grounded women. There was so much positivity and love and sharing and acceptance in this group that I felt all warm and fuzzy for weeks afterwards.

Imagine my surprise, tho, when each time we sat down to share a meal together, these confident and beautiful women joined the chorus of guilt eating.
“Oh, maybe I’ll have half a cookie, I didn’t have much lunch and I’ll go for a walk this afternoon”
“I never have desserts but I’m on holidays so it doesn’t count”
“This is a no calorie zone, right?!?”
Can you hear yourself saying these words?
These conversations are so normalized that I doubt these women even realized what they were doing or that they were supporting each other in doing it. And it made me a bit sad. The interesting thing is that the comment or apology never ever stopped them from eating the “sinful” cookie. They ate it with just that little bit of bitter guilt mixed in.

So to that I say, what if you just ate the flippin’ cookie/cake/donut?!? Let your body enjoy this beautiful and delicious indulgence rather than stirring up feelings of guilt and suffering. Celebrate the ingredients and love that were put into creating this decadent dessert or meal just for you. Change the mindset of “good” and “bad” that doesn’t’ actually change what you eat but puts judgement and negativity on your body just for good measure.

You are allowed to eat and ENJOY whatever you choose to put in your mouth! No apologies! No guilt!

And you are BEAUTIFUL – today and every day!

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