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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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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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February full of Bodacious-ness!

Lorna — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 18:15:58 +0000

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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Celebrating FALL in a BIG way at Bodacious!

Lorna — Fri, 09 Oct 2015 19:26:38 +0000

hello lovelies!

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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Springtime at Bodacious!

Lorna — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 20:27:50 +0000

Happy April! I got that in on the very last day:)
As you may have heard, I turned 50 this month and I challenged myself to do a 100 kilometre Camino walk in Spain. I did it!!! I reached Santiago de Compostela on the day after my birthday! What a feeling that was as you can see from the happy/teary look on my face. Thankfully I had my best friend and supporter, George, by my side. We had several days after arriving in Santiago to relax and enjoy the sights and partake in the delicious food and wine;)
My plan for the rest of the year and hopefully the rest of my life, is to do something fun/unique/challenging every month (at the very least). For me this will include jewelry classes, days with friends, dancing!, and challenging myself to new adventures. I wasn’t afraid of 50 as I believe that every year is worth celebrating but the physical challenge definitely scared me. I’m so happy and proud to tick this off my list.
What I also learned in my travels is how much I love coming home to Vancouver and how much I love Bodacious and what we do. I saw many beautiful boutiques in Santiago and in Madrid but none that catered to the curvy ladies. I’m happy to come home to shop in my own store again! If you’re interested in seeing more about my trip, you can always check out my personal facebook page (Lorna Ketler) for more pix. The day before I left, we did an awesome photo shoot with the beautiful Jihan, right here at Granville Island. There will be many pix coming out of that day but thought I’d give you a sneak peak of some behind the scenes. In each pic, Jihan is rocking size 16 Joseph Ribkoff pieces. Photographer is my talented and lovely friend from the Sunshine Coast, Linsey Hulls www.linseyhulls.com
The linens are in! The linens are in! For those of you who’ve been patiently waiting for the Chalet linens, they’re HERE! Best so far! (all styles also featuring Lotusland Jewelry)
There is also a rayon blend from Chalet this season which is equally awesome. Super light and flow-y. Great for travel! And there’s this new handbag line… and some more Ribkoff…and new Sympli and a new line called Aller Simplement that we haven’t even got out of the box yet!!! Oh my, this season is going to ROCK!

Phew! Hope to see you soon!

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FALLING in LOVE with Bodacious!

Lorna — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 20:34:36 +0000

Tomorrow is October 1st!!! How the heck did that happen? We definitely were blessed with a spectacular summer and fall seems to be shaping up just fine. Best part of fall? All the beautiful, warm, cozy fashions at Bodacious. Honestly, every season just gets better and better for me. The styles and selection are wonderful! Here is a sneak peak at what’s in store…

and to prepare for the party season…
and THESE!!!
Gorgeous handmade local handbags by Sew Donna Design!
and SO.MUCH.MORE!

Last week I had the pleasure and honour of sponsoring the G is for Goddess event here at Granville Island. This evening was hosted by the Lunapad gals who sure know how to throw an party! (For the teen girls in your world, check out their upcoming G Day for Girls event.)
Wonderful, inspiring speakers, delicious food and gorgeous decor. I was thrilled to introduce Taryn Brumfitt of the Body Image Movement as the keynote speaker. If you haven’t heard of her, check out the website and support this dynamic Australian phenomenon! Her “love your body” message is right up our alley and I’m so excited about her Embrace campaign.
Now, it’s time to start planning some me time after a crazy busy summer. A Mexican beach is calling my name! How’s your fall shaping up? Remember to “Celebrate YOU!” in whatever you do!xo
Lorna and the awesome Bodacious team!

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An observation (and appreciation) of friendship (and shopping:)

Lorna — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:11:33 +0000

This past few years I’ve learned a lot about friendship. I’ve had to let some go (we just weren’t our best together) and I’ve gained many true, deep friends as well. I’ve had to call on my friends quite a lot during certain times and I’m still always surprised at how quickly and with ease they “show up” in my life. I’m trying to be that person too.
I’ve had the pleasure of watching some amazing moments between friends at Bodacious . Shopping together isn’t always a good shared experience. I’ve seen some horrible exchanges between mothers and daughters, husbands and wives and also between friends. But the tenderness and magic that can happen is so lovely to witness. I’ve seen several two or threesomes come through in the past couple of weeks who are so tender, complimentary and loving – excited to be together, happy to share an opinion, but with gentle words and so much love!
That’s what I recommend. If you’re shopping with your friend (or spouse or mother/daughter), pay attention to how she lights up (or doesn’t) when she comes out of the dressing room. It doesn’t matter how amazing you think she looks if she’s not feeling it.
We are our worst enemies. Trying on clothes can be very daunting and traumatic for many women. So be gentle with each other. You could say, “Are you sure you’re going to wear that?” (it’s definitely helpful if you know she already has 3 in her closet that she’s not wearing and gentle honesty is always appreciated!), but also, focus on the positive and say, “How does it feel? You are so beautiful!”
Shopping shouldn’t be hard and unpleasant. I see it as an opportunity to play, experiment with new things and have fun!
If someone comes out of the dressing room dancing, twirling or swishing, it’s time for everyone to celebrate!

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Int’l Women’s Day 2013

Lorna — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:01:11 +0000

I was just reflecting on all the amazing, talented and inspirational women I’ve met over the years.
From my grandma at 94 years old who inspires me every day with her love of life, appreciating each moment and in these later years, knowing it’s ok to ask for what she wants!
…to the creators of art and beauty – so many creative souls that I’ve been privileged to cross paths with.
…to the leaders who share their stories and guide others with heart, humour and strength.
…to the solopreneurs who work their asses off and give back and show up!
…to all my beautiful and wise friends and family who have held my hand along this path (especially through the challenges of the past couple of years!) and letting me hold yours when necessary.
…to all the beautiful women who walk through the doors of Bodacious every day and remind me why I love doing what I do!
…to my mom for being my mom
I honour you all and celebrate this day and every day with you!

Happy International Women’s Day!

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Hooked on a feeling!

Lorna — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 21:12:51 +0000

When a I posted this picture on facebook the other day, I received a comment about how it was too boxy and shapeless and didn’t flatter my shape. (I should’ve pushed up the sleeves:) My hasty reaction was to delete, delete, delete. Not because I couldn’t handle the criticism, but because it made me doubt myself and question what others see. What I’ve since realized (in thinking about it all weekend!), is that it provided me with the opportunity to review why I wear what I wear. Sometimes I choose to wear a very specific outfit to flatter my shape, sometimes I need to wear my high-heeled, knee-high power boots to give me strength, and other times, I’m really going after a feel or a vibe. I’m not under any illusions. I know what I look like. I know what my shape and size is. ~~But~~…AND I don’t always feel like I have to make myself look smaller or thinner or even accentuate my curves. Sometimes I want to wear a chunky sweater with rolled up jeans and my new funky boots. Do I think I look like these ladies? Absolutely not! Am I feeling the vibe that these photos elicit for me? Casual, fall, comfy, stylin’? You betcha.

There are too many rules in this world that tell us to “be” or “look” a certain way. I don’t necessarily abide by them. Why can’t we just be creative and play with our clothes? A camera captures a one dimensional image of a moment in time. It doesn’t capture how I feel when I’m walking down the street, chatting with a friend or holding my head up high and greeting a happy customer.
Often, I’m disappointed in the fact that the camera so doesn’t “get” me. That’s not how I look in my head:) And really, how I feel in my clothes (without rules or photos), is the most important piece. I hope you choose to break the rules with your fall fashion pieces. Hold your head high, own it, work it and HAVE FUN!!!

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