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! xo Lorna, Jill, Cathryn & Carol

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“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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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.”

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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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Happy February to you, my lovelies!  My cold and I are just back from a wonderful two week holiday to California and Mexico with my honey. I was so thrilled to see humpback whales breaching, manta rays jumping, sandy white beaches and star-filled skies! Re-connecting with friends and some beach time were just what the doctor ordered.  Not sure why the doctor included this damn cold in the prescription tho’;)

The best part of going away is coming back to all the new fashions in the store! It is so exciting to see so much colour and fabulous styles. We’ve introduced TWO new lines in the past week.
Blaest raincoats – Oh My Goodness! These are beautiful, colourful and run the full range of sizes! You might just be happy that it’s raining.
LOVE!



We also just received our first run of Colour Me Cotton linens and cottons. Many of you have requested this line and I think you’ll be pleased! Stay posted on Facebook for pix as these literally just came in the door.

And then there’s Mr. Joseph Ribkoff who never disappoints…many of the new styles are coming in up to size 22 so please spread the word to your plus-size peeps. All beautifully made in Montreal, Canada.

And, as always, so much more!

Of course, we love to support women’s projects with the beaded bracelets from Marigold Collective, perfectly pretty scarves and beautiful Lotusland bead jewelry!

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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I can’t believe it’s been almost a month since my amazing bootcamp week on the warm sandy beaches of Tulum.  For those of you who’ve been following by Epic 50th year, my November epic event was 7 days of bootcamp with 14 other awesome women at Hemingway Beach Resort in Tulum, Mexico.
The week included 7 mornings of bootcamp (strength exercises, handball games, push-ups, jumping jacks and BOXING!) Did I mention I LOVED the boxing?!? I never would’ve guessed:)
It also included yoga, salsa classes, massages and delicious food. Louise from Body Exchange takes a group every year so I’d recommend you have a look for next year if you’re interested. You are so worth it!
I learned that I am a lot stronger than I thought I was and I got out a lot of frustrations on my friend Kim’s punching pads!
Here’s me in my power stance;)

As always, we’re full of amazing fashions for all of your holiday party needs.

Joseph Ribkoff continues to inspire with all of the pretty dresses and separates up to size 22. Here’s our gorgeous Jihan showing off a few of the latest arrivals.



I’m also loving this new horizontal striped skirt seen here 3 different ways.

New Chalet crinkle arrived yesterday! We’re still unpacking these so no pix yet but I can tell you that there are lots of turquoise, blue print and white styles for those of you who are checking out for some fun in the sun.

We want you to stay dry and stylin’!  Chloe Angus rain jackets are NOW ON SALE for 30% OFF!

And here’s something new to tickle your fancy…

First off, Elk Accessories and Clothing from Australia
I’m absolutely loving the flow and simplicity of this new line. It’s not a curve hugging fit but more flowy and loose. The fabrics are super soft and the line just looks elegant and fresh.  Here are some pix…I already own the dress below and am loving it!



Our other new line, K-O.ME has just re-stocked us with some gorgeous new prints and styles.

Tonight and next Thursday, Bodacious and our lovely neighbours at Delish General Store will be staying open until 8pm for your shopping convenience.  Delish has awesome and local gifts for the whole family!

Bodacious can also assist you with the hard-to-buy-for on your list.

Easiest and most appreciated gift ever?  These super gorgeous jewel-toned Marigold Collective silk scarves from a women’s co-operative in Vietnam.
or choose from our awesome selection of pretty and petite earrings from local designer, BuenoStyle

or? or? or?

I’ll be there tonight (with bells on) so come on out and see me! Hot chocolate is on me!

Still stuck for ideas? We are so here for you!

Today until December 24, if you purchase a Bodacious $100 Gift Certificate, you will receive an extra $30 certificate at no cost. This can be given as a separate certificate or all in one. Or “one for you, one for me”? Can’t beat that!

Thank you to all who donated to our clothing and care items drive for the WISH Drop In Centre Society.  We were able to collect an amazing amount of warm clothing and necessities with your help. So very appreciated!

We want to wish you all the most loving blessings of this season.  May you love and be loved.  Enjoy this season of giving and know that the most important part is to be kind and care for each other.

We will be closed at 3 on Christmas Eve
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

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	Unbelievable! Matt & Nat handbags 25% OFF!!! Shopping for a friend or just a little treat for yourself?We have a fabulous selection of Matt & Nat vegan leather handbags at Bodacious.
	What!?! Joseph Ribkoff 25% OFF!!! It’s time for holiday parties and we’ve got what you need to make you feel extra special!I know! This is a VERY BIG DEAL!All Joseph Ribkoff dresses and separates 25% off until Sunday!
	This never happens!!! Sympli Grand 25% OFF!!! Authenticity is essential to positive self image. All women deserve to feel confident in their own skin and Sympli is designed to reflect the diversity of personality and the female figure.Sizes 0G to 3G! *discounts not valid with other offers

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Well, it’s official. Bodacious is now 15 years old!  How the heck did that happen?

We’ve had a lot of fun celebrating so far and here are some pix to prove it!  I want to thank everyone who came out to party with us at the False Creek Yacht Club last week.  Our gorgeous models (Jihan, Jan, Jennifer, me, Emily, Karen and Benita) rocked the “runway” and all the friends/family/volunteers/customers made my night so special!I’m very pleased and excited to add a new local designer, Kjaer, into the mix who’s line K.O.ME (worn below by Jan and Emily) is so beautiful and fun.  You can find a great selection of these silks and other luscious pieces now at Bodacious:)






And there were speeches and cake and beautiful flowers…

and so, so, so much love, appreciation and smiling faces.





Thank you all so much for being along for a part or all of this 15 year journey! I’m so happy to be here and hold this space for women to feel beautiful and know that they are!

If you missed the party, we still have some treats for you…

For every purchase over $100 between now and the 15th of November, receive a FREE Bodacious Cherry-licous body cream.

Also, all Citron and Chalet is now 20% OFF for your shopping pleasure!

We just loaded up our online shopping site at Shoptiques.
Can’t get in to the store as often as you’d like? Check out our website and go to the shopping page www.bodacious.ca. So far I’ve been using stock photos so the models don’t reflect the curvier sizes but it’s a work in progress and I will add more pix as we go.

And, as always, so much more!

Of course, we love to support women’s projects at Bodacious. We’ve just re-stocked on new silk scarves from Marigold Collective as well as the uniquely beautiful Lotusland Imports bead jewelry!

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First and foremost, from everyone at Bodacious to you and yours, we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving Weekend.  I am so thankful for each and every one of you who love and support this dream of mine! You make it all worthwhile.  I’m also very thankful for my amazing Bodacious team who join in my enthusiasm of body love and celebrating every being who walks in the door!

We are so excited to celebrate all things FALL at Bodacious. Cardi’s, ponchos, raincoats, beautiful scarves and shawls…
We are as full as ever of yummy and warm fall items to keep you fashionably cosy throughout the season.


We also have the best selection EVER of Matt & Nat fall handbags! This month also marks our 15 YEAR Anniversary and it’s time to CELEBRATE! Stay tuned for in-store events and giveaways. Have you got your ticket yet for our fashion show and party at the False Creek Yacht Club? Previews of Spring 2016 Fashions!
Tickets available now at Bodacious.           Happy Weekend everyone.  Hope to see you in-store soon.
xo L

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