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• The Glow (and Glitter!) of Inspiration

  Published Feb 23 2023 in #cherryjewelry, #cherryvelvet, #handmade, #jewelry, #madeincanada

  Have you ever wondered how we dream up the looks you love? While inspiration can come from just about anywhere, one really obvious way to find fresh ideas for our accessory catalogue is to coordinate our jewelry with our dress prints. Our new “secret garden” collection features florals, keys, and birds, and these gorgeous fabrics gave me the idea for a new line of charm-style necklaces.

  
  The design process for these necklaces and earrings began with drawing my ideas out on paper. Then I sat down with Pam from Mirror Mirror Bijoux and combed through her stash of treasures. Together, we choose charms and beads from her boxes, coordinating colours with fabric swatches. It was so much fun making these ideas come to life!
  
  Each unique and stunning necklace was specifically designed alongside one of our beautiful prints, but was also created to be striking and lovely in its own right. We want you to enjoy wearing your new jewelry with other outfits, too. All our charm sets compliment their inspiration dresses, but we intentionally made them not too "matchy-matchy".
  
  Secret Garden Necklace Set

  Designed with our Secret Keeper and Petal Perfume dresses in mind, this set sparkles in vibrant shades of violet and fuchsia. Gold highlights on the necklace and matching earrings connect with the bejeweled keys on the print, adding a regal touch to this gorgeously versatile jewelry.

  Love Lock Necklace Set
  
  With its antique-style padlock and keys, this whimsical combination will surely "charm" you! Crystals in pale pink, passionate purple, and brilliant blue were chosen to coordinate with our lovely Aerial Mingle dress, but will also bring out the beautiful colours in so many outfits.
  
  Peacock Mystique
  
  Just like our Pretty in Plumage dress, this set was made to dazzle! The spectacular hues of peacock feathers are echoed in beads that shimmer with shades of chartreuse and turquoise, grounded with classic black and gold. Whether you wear the set together or choose only the earrings or the necklace to accessorize an outfit, you'll be ready to strut your stuff.
  
  Cherry Luck Charm
  
  We reached back into the archives to find inspiration for this classic look. Our Good Luck Tattoo print dates back to our first year in business, and this coordinated set is here to reminisce and celebrate ten years of retro class with modern sass! Of course, cherry charms were a must, and are perfectly mixed with a crown, a key, and a horseshoe. Let this sweet necklace serve as a reminder: you're a queen whose good luck allows you to unlock all the best things in life.
  
  We couldn't wait to release these sparkling sets and the dresses that inspired them. Have a look at all our new necklaces here.

  We love to see your photos and discover all the beautiful outfits you'll create. Remember to tag your photos with #cherryvelvet so we get to see them too!

  XOX Cherry Velvet

• What’s the True Cost of your dress?

  Published Apr 21 2022 in #canadianfashiondesigner, #cherryvelvet, #fastfashion, #madeincanada, #slowfashion, #truecost

  It’s Spring and that means it’s party time and you’re shopping for a new dress (or two)!

  Before you go online to swipe, click and answer the door to another fast fashion disappointment that will likely end up in a landfill; ask yourself how much better you would feel in a cute cotton dress that fits your curves and is locally made with quality?

  
  
  What’s in it for Me?

  Wearing a dress that's made in Canada is something to be proud of. Your choice to order a dress that’s already in North America means that it gets to you faster so you can enjoy the compliments sooner. Look at how cute and conscious you are! 

  Also, remember that Cherry Velvet dresses are limited editions so you are wearing a unique design that’s one of a few. Sometimes only as few as 8 dresses are made in a print so you can rest assured you are not likely to see someone else in YOUR dress. 
  
  Pay it Forward
  
  Yes, you're wearing a beautiful dress but did you know that you’re also a local hero? Your dollar will turn over ten times because you spent it in North America. Once your money is spent overseas it’s never coming back. By shopping locally your support makes a big difference. Also, you can feel better because the women that make your clothes are treated well and paid a fair wage (this is NOT the case when you buy cheap fashion).
  
  What’s holding you back?

  Is it the price? A Cherry Velvet dress can range in price starting from as low as  $69 (depending on the sale, season, and offer codes applied to your order). Be sure to sign up for the newsletter here to know about sales and new arrivals first. 
  
  Less is More

  We’ve all heard that expression and it applies to your wardrobe too. By shopping for a locally made dress that was not shipped from overseas you are making a big difference towards the greater good. If you focus on quality over quantity, you would be helping save the environment from toxic fast fashion and have more closet space. It’s a win win!
  
  Do you know what your dress is costing you, women just like you and the planet? The True Cost is higher than you may know. Fast Fashion is a beast that is responsible for devastating effects on our planet. This polluting problem snuck up on us quickly and isn't going away on its own. It’s time to slay the beast. 

  XOX Cherry Velvet

   

• Cozy Up with Fall Looks

  Published Nov 04 2021 in #autumnvibes #fallfashion, #cherryvelvet, #fluevog, #kerosenedeluxe, #madeincanada, #styletips

  The leaves have fallen and will soon be making way for frost. But what about all those short sleeved dresses in your closet? Should they be banished until Spring? Get your money's worth by wearing your dresses year round! Here's some of our favorite ways to tap into the Fall aesthetic.

  Our new 'Danse Macabre' Sabrina dress with a vintage crinoline for a classic silhouette is perfect for an evening out paired with some sparkly jewelry. But what about the chillier days?
  
  How about a wool cape paired with a beret and boots? Chic and timeless and sure to keep you warm!
  
  Here we see Diane in the 'Twilight Bloom' Chrissy dress with the A Capella coat in raspberry (and some killer Fluevog boots!). Proof that floral prints can look great all year, not just in spring.
  
  If the cool and casual look is more your thing cue the moto jacket!

  In these images Kerosene paired her dress with a thrifted faux leather moto jacket, wool and leather newsboy cap and Fluevog Bertman boots
  
  This look offers a much more laid back vibe with a touch of badass.
  
  Wear some leggings or opaque tights underneath for extra warmth or throw over one of our ultra soft shrugs for a cozy touch that won't hide your dress.
  
  It's a good idea to have some strategic staples in your closet for layering.
  Basics such as plain leggings, crew neck t-shirts, collared shirts and turtle necks are versatile essentials to keep you warm and stylish. Cardigans, capes and shrugs make for great top layers.
  
  (In these looks we see our dresses worn with the Perfect Tee from our Diane Kennedy line)
  
  Our dresses are to be worn and enjoyed however you see fit. Forget about the 'rules' and trends.
  Wear whatever makes you feel good, this season and always...
  
  XOX Cherry Velvet
  
  

• New to Team Cherry: April!

  Published Sep 09 2021 in #cherryvelvet, #cottondresses, #madeincanada, #petite, #pinup

  We thought it would be fun to share an interview with our newest team member. Introducing our adorable new Graphic Designer, April, who recently joined us in August. You may recognize her cotton-candy tresses and bubbly smile as she recently appeared on the scene modeling the newest dresses on the website and socials.

  April is a breath of fresh air with her optimistic perspective, creative talent and artistic viewpoint.  April will be marrying the love of her life in Scotland next year and we couldn't be more excited for this wee lass. Let's get to know April:

  
  
  Who are your style inspirations?

  Life holds so many opportunities for inspiration; as a visual designer it is my passion to consume the physical world, then reflect the interesting bits back in my work. People that inspire me:

  Illustration: Christoph Niemann

  Humanitarian: Elladj Balde

  Persona: Kate McKinnon

  Web: We Are Only Human 

  Music: Sofi Tukker

  
  What would people find unexpected about you?
  
  I have a background in interior design and I love renovating. I don't shy away from the bigger jobs including flooring, plumbing, and minor electrical, I just need a ladder as I'm only 5'2".
  
  
  You are getting married to a Scotsman! Do you have a favorite Scottish saying you've picked up?
  
  I could not believe the first time car park came out of my mouth, and I definately have adopted Oi rather they Hey!
  
  How would you describe your personal style?
  
  My at-home style is 'sport-metal' heavily influenced by Lululemon, self-made tie-dye oversized hoodies and my fiancé's random 70's - 90's band T-shirts.
  
  My going-out-in-public style is Power Feminine. This outfit hinges on how much walking needs to happen. I love pairing a straight leg one piece jump suit with chunky platform shoes or bad-ass stilettos. But we better be taking an Uber right to the door!
  
  Do you have any hidden talents?
  
  I'm a mom.. so obviously I can read minds.
  
  Five things you can’t live without?
  
  My family (quietly minding their own business while do what I do.)
  Good Music always manages to inspire or lift me out of a funk.
  The Adobe Suite, and my computer for that matter because ART=LIFE.
  Opinions of the very few (you know who you are) “Care about people’s approval, and you will always be their prisoner.” – Lao Tzu
  Food and Water.. isn't that obvious?

  
  And lastly, what is your favorite Cherry Velvet dress?
  
  The Molecular Magic with the cutie black shrug is amazing. I feel like I'm going to my first year at Hogwarts.

   We're so happy to have this lovely, creative girl working with us! Please feel free to say hi to her on our social posts!

  XOX Cherry Velvet

• The Final Library of Dresses: Chapter "T - Z"

  Published Aug 05 2021 in #cherryvelvet, #madeincanada, #madmen, #pinupgirl, #plussizedresses

  Ta-Dah! You've made it to the final exciting installment of our dress archives. So... last but certainly not least and with out further ado; here are the final fabulous frocks from T - Z...

  TATYANA

  Named for a Cherry Velvet staff member, the Tatyana was introduced in the fall of 2015 for a one-time production. She was very sassy indeed with her plunging V neckline, criss cross straps and daring cold shoulders. She came in popular prints that featured artistic animal motifs like these hidden tiger prints by Tula Pink. 

  

  

  TRUDY

  Sweet Trudy was an adorable day dress that made a striking style statement. Trudy had a little attitude thanks to short puffy sleeves, a collar, a V neckline and a row of bold buttons on the bodice. She was suitable for work, lunch with the girls or dinner out on the town. What do you think, perhaps we should bring Trudy back? 

  

    

   VANESSA

  Vanessa was a charmer that answered the call for dresses that were perfect to wear to work. She was very popular and flattering for many body shapes. Vanessa featured a V neck, short sleeves and buttons up the front of the bodice. She came in many amazing prints, probably the most memorable was our Ms. Frizzle Dress in a print that was out of this world.....

   

   

   VERONICA

  Aptly named for legendary screen siren, Veronica Lake. She was the perfect curvy dress for the sexy secretary style that we could see celebrated in Mad Men. The first time Veronica came out was very early on in the Fall of 2012. She flaunted a contrast collar, sweetheart neckline, 3/4 cuffed sleeves and a full skirt. Veronica is especially memorable since she was our very first dress to be made in our signature cherry print. 

   

  

  Yes, we made 2 Veronica dresses! The second time we named a dress Veronica, it was for our long time model Veronica Belle. Now this was a party dress that every girl dreamed of! The full circle skirt was perfect to wear with a crinoline. This classic confection was made in pretty shades of satin, with a fitted bodice, waistband and finished with a perky bow. She was the Belle of the ball and perfect for dancing the night away!

  

   

  

  VIOLA

  The bold colour-block style of Viola was featured in the spring of 2015. Diane pulled her inspiration from the geometric styles and eye-catching colours of the 1960's. This dress was made in a smooth rayon-poly blend. The tricky negative space gave the illusion of a tiny waist. How great was that? Viola was a streamlined design that came in two colourways; Coral/Black and Royal/Black. 

  

   ZOE

  Zoe was a sweet and sassy sundress with a rockabilly attitude. She had a V neck with ruching in the front and was made in several darling florals as well as cool metallic mod dot prints. She had an A-line skirt and pockets. We'll never forget the fun retro road trip we took with this style in a gorgeous vintage gold Thunderbird! Here's a look back to that amazing memory and the beautiful pictures that share a glimpse into those rockin' good times.

   

   

  

   And so we have reached the conclusion of our first decade of dress designs. Yes, that's 10 years of fashion shoots, photographers, stylists, models, hair & make-up and mishaps along the way.

  This fun-filled journey would not have been possible without the contributions of many who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make these dresses a reality. The seemingly endless work of designing, fitting, fabric selection, and production are only a small part of the labour of love that is Cherry Velvet.  Our heartfelt appreciation goes out our supportive team of staff, models, and friends who have helped the brand thrive.

  We hope you'll take the time to write us and tell us which styles you love and if there are any that you would like us to make again for you. Feel free to send us an e-mail or comment on our social posts. Or watch for a survey coming soon.

  Cheers to another 10 years! As we sign off we're busy ordering beautiful new prints and planning new must-have dresses for you to love....

   XOX Cherry Velvet

   

• A Library of Dress designs: Chapter "S" ~ Part 2

  Published Jul 13 2021 in #canadianfashion, #cherryvelvet, #madeincanada, #pinup, #pinupdress, #plus

  Welcome back to part 2 of the sassy, sexy "S" dresses. We hope you are enjoying a look back at these feisty frocks designed to fit and flatter your curves.

   

  SOOKIE

  Good enough to sink your fangs in to! Diane was watching the HBO show True Blood when she took notice of the cute frocks worn by Sookie Stackhouse. There was a scene in particular that stood out; when Bill and Sookie travel to Fangtasia and she is referred to as 'Vampire Bait' in her flirty little sundress. And so, in the Spring of 2023 the Sookie dress came to be. We love her playful vibe with the full skirt and flirty gathered bust.

  

  

  

  SOPHIA

  Diane introduced Sophia to give a little extra va-va-voom to your style (à la Sophia Loren). This fetching party dress appeared in fall of 2012 with flirty peek-a-boo shoulders, a sweetheart neckline, three quarter sleeves and a beautiful full skirt that was lovely with a crinoline. This one was especially flattering for a fuller bust and only made once. The Sophia dress debuted at our Save-On Meats photo shoot, don't you love the nostalgic, retro diner vibe?
  

   

  STACY STRIPES

  The Stacy dress was first conceptualized in 2014 and from the beginning was designed to be made for striped fabric. If you look closely at the pattern, you can see how Diane planned it to be compatible with stripes which are notoriously difficult to match up and look good. The first sketch is the original design with cap sleeves.

  By the time Stacy was produced in spring of 2019 the design was modified to have three-quarter sleeves and was offered in a jaunty banker pin stripe in two colours; Black and Navy. The V-neckline and gathers at the bust added interest while the vertical stripes were slimming (we love that!)

  
  

  STELA

  Stela was a fabulous party dress introduced for Holiday 2013. She was made in a stretch cotton sateen and her full skirt looked amazing with a crinoline. The scoop neckline was accented with a flirty notched detail. There was a bow at the empire waist and three quarter sleeves with gathers finished off the look.

   

   

  SUZY

  Suzy Sundress was a fun one; this cheeky shorter dress was designed for summer picnics and beach days. The cheerful prints, wide straps and sweetheart neckline were completed with Ric Rac trim around the bodice and pockets for a vintage look. This adorable dress was featured in our unforgettable Retro Road Trip photo shoot.

  

  

  
  
  
  

  

  Revisiting these dresses brings back happy memories of good times at these fun photo shoots. We appreciate being a part of your celebrations and hope our dresses add joy to your events.
  
  The next exciting installment of our dress archives will be the last one,  T - Z dresses. Stay tuned ...

  XOX Cherry Velvet

• A Library of Dress designs: Chapter "S" ~ Part 1

  Published Jun 28 2021 in #audreyhepburndresses, #cherryvelvet, #ellymayday, #madeincanada, #pinupperfectionphotography

  Can you believe that we have made it to the 'S' dresses already? Only a few more chapters to go before our dress history is complete. This week is Part 1 of our journey through the splendid, sassy dresses that begin with the letter S.

  Click here for part 2.

  SABRINA

  One of our very early styles, the Sabrina has made many appearances. Named after the classic and timeless movie with Audrey Hepburn, she embodies those qualities as well.  We're thinking it might be time to bring this style back for an encore performance! (let us know what you think). This dress was first revealed in the Spring of 2013 and reappeared in more beautiful prints for a few more limited productions.
  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  SALLY

  This one time production of the Sally Sundress was back in 2016. She was set up for one way border prints which meant the pattern pieces were laid out sideways on the fabric. She was available in a memorable Flamingo print and some lovely border florals too. Don't you just love the printed patterns that follow along the hemline?

  
  
  
  SHELLY

  Our regular readers will recognise Shelly as a friend of Diane (our designer), whose fun and whimsical fashion sense makes her the perfect choice to have a dress named after her. As a self-proclaimed, "sexy, fat chick" with a penchant for dresses, Shelly is an avid Cherry Velvet aficionado with a collection of dresses to envy. We first made the Shelly dress in the winter of 2014 and again several times after. Her unique neckline is her best feature but she also boasted 3/4 length sleeves, a lovely full skirt and of course, pockets too.

   

  

  

  

  

  SHIMONA

  Once in a while, you meet someone special that's destined to have an impact on your life and creative process; and that's how we feel about the uber-talented Shimona Henry. The first time Diane met her was at her studio right before Cherry Velvet Dresses' very first photo shoot.  Pin-up Perfection Photography is her company and it's certainly been her primary focus for many years. Several years ago, she decided to go back to school for hair and makeup with the goal of more regular work hours. So now she's not just an extraordinary photographer but also does amazing hair styling and make-up artistry as well. We were thrilled to name this adorable dress after someone that has been such a big and important influence on our brand.

  The Shimona dress was as versatile as the woman, she had a pretty convertible collar that could be worn open or buttoned closed to show off a cheeky diamond cut out as her defining feature.

  

  

   

  

  How exciting was that recap? Only 2 installments left on our dress history! Stay tuned as we're about to start announcing details about our 10th Anniversary celebration. Yes, it's just around the corner. Hint; there will be special limited edition dresses in gorgeous new prints coming out soon and SWAG goodies too! Squeal!)

  XOX Cherry Velvet

• A Library of dress designs : Chapter "N - O"

  Published Jun 02 2021 in #1950s, #cherryvelvet, #cottondresses, #madeincanada, #marilynmonroe, #pinupdress, #plusmodel

  This new chapter of our dress history series is a major one! One of our most frequently released designs is featured, plus a couple other gorgeous past looks and many nostalgic fabrics.This week is all about the dress designs that start with the letters "N" & "O"!

   NATALIE

  Who remembers the Natalie dress? It was named after Diane's lovely niece and was one of very few dress designs that came with a wiggle skirt. Finished at the hemline with a flirty flounce, the Natalie made it supremely fun to flaunt a little wiggle. With a short sleeve, square neckline, a row of colour matched buttons and best of all a cheeky keyhole cutout in the back, the Natalie was memorable indeed. 

  

  

  

  

  NORMA

  Inspired by Marilyn's famous white halter dress in the movie the "Seven Year Itch" our Norma gives something extra special to everyone who wears her. Norma is possibly the best loved of all our dresses because the cut of the bodice and waistline give this dress a fit like no other. While there's no doubt that she fits a curvy girl best, this dress noticeably gives a lift to your "girls" and seems to give everyone more of the much-coveted hourglass figure. The next batch of Norma are on the horizon and are coming in amazing new limited edition prints for summer because Some Like it Hot!

  

   

  

  

  

  

   Aside from the beautiful cut of the dress, the Norma is extra special because Diane designed it for one way prints. As this is Diane's favourite dress, she also tends to put the most whimsical prints into this style. Follow along in our social media accounts to enter the "Name That Print" Contest for a chance at winning a gift certificate while helping us name the prints for the next batch of Norma's coming soon...

  

  

   

  

  

  

  

  OLIVIA

  Another much loved style, the Olivia is the dress that can be worn to work and then dressed up to dance the night away. While the scoop necklace is demure and office appropriate, her lovely full swing skirt just begs to be twirled. Olivia first appeared in the fall of 2016 and has been a popular style for her charm and flexability. Olivia is available to buy right now in these beautiful prints here. 

   

  

  

  

  Thanks for following along with our history of Cherry Velvet dresses.

  You'll see the new Marie's dresses are coming next! We're working hard on getting new dresses ready for you.The Normas will be after the Marie's and we have surprises coming too!

  XOX Cherry Velvet

   

   

   

• A Library of dress designs: Chapter "M" ~part 2

  Published May 27 2021 in #1950s, #cherryvelvet, #cottondresses, #madeincanada, #marilynmonroe, #pinupdress

  As promised, here's the final 4 marvellous 'M' named dresses. Enjoy this stylish stroll down memory lane in our ongoing herstory of Cherry Velvet designs.

   

  MARGOT

   Fall 2022 introduced us to Margot, a versatile dress that is a dream to layer and style. Perfect for the office or a dinner date, this frock is an absolute charmer!

  

  

  

  MARILYN  

  "A wise girl knows her limits, a smart girl knows that she has none." ~ Marilyn Monroe

  Inspired by the one and only Marilyn Monroe, Diane designed the Marilyn dress as something she could imagine this icon wearing back in the 1950's. The original concept behind this popular style was to design a halter style dress that could be worn with a regular bra. She knew that having to find and buy a special bra just for one dress was neither practical or desirable. The Marilyn was created with straps that cover your bra plus a halter tie neck so you could wear a normal bra for support and still have the style of a halter neckline.

  Birds have always captivated the hearts of Cherry Velvet gals and this print started the love affair. How much do you love this cute tie-neck back bow and the adorable 'Wind Song' print? The romantic vibe made it the perfect summer dress. 

  

  

  

  MARLENE

  Marlene made a first appearance as one of our very first festive frocks for Holiday 2013. Marlene was a holiday party dress with a dramatic flounced hem of ruffled chiffon for added flourish.The original version was designed to add decadence to your evening look with beautiful damask and jacquard-like fabrics. 

   

  

  

  Marlene came back one more time in the Fall of 2019 with an updated new look. She now had Glow-In-The-Dark capabilities or a metallic shimmer. The sleeves offered coverage with a stunning neckline that really captured attention and this skirt looked beautiful with a crinoline. 

  

  

  MELODY

  Melody brought a Polynesian twist with a low cut sweetheart neckline, wide contoured straps, and an adjustable tie front which emphasized the bustline.  A longer length skirt balanced out the design. She came in some seriously cute prints including the memorable "Tea Room" design. Diane has been looking for a 'tea' print for years and has finally found one that is particularly flirt-TEA and will be available this summer! 

   

  MINERVA

  If you already have a best-selling Norma dress (more arriving soon) you'll imagine how cute it would be to have a variation that offered sleeves for cooler weather. Minerva was designed to accommodate a wonderful witch print from the Tula Pink fabric collection called De La Luna. This was an extra design challenge too because of the scale of the print. Diane designed the Minerva to have a solid colour bodice and a printed skirt.

   

  

  

  That's all of our 'M' dresses wrapped up for your enjoyment. Hope you are loving these fun chapters as much as we are. On to "N - O" next week!

  XOX Cherry Velvet

   

• A Library of dress designs: Chapter "M" ~part 1

  Published May 20 2021 in #10yearanniversary, #cherryvelvet, #history, #madeincanada, #plussizedresses, #plussizepinup

  Get ready for Marvellous "M" dresses! There are so many beautiful "M"s to share that we are giving it to you in two parts...Click here for part 2.

  MARCIA 

  There's a story of a lovely lady....yes this dress was named after that Marcia. Inspired by the iconic 1960's designer Andre Courreges, the Marcia dress featured a unique cut out neckline that was covered yet cheeky at the same time. This dress was made in a smooth rayon-poly blend. Offered up in solid colours of Black, Blue and Coral for a one time appearance in the Spring of 2015. 

  MARIE

  Taking over the top spot as our most popular style to date and a complete crowd pleaser....drum roll please...the Marie dress! Everyone loves the Marie.  This dress looks all business but the unexpected convenience of the front zip makes it easy to go from secretary to sexy in a zip! The Marie was designed to accommodate one way fabrics; this means you also get an amazing assortment of fun and whimsical prints to express yourself. Check out these available Marie Dresses!

   

   

  

   

  

  

  Sneak Peek! New Marie dresses arrive soon in these new prints: 

  

  MAXINE

  With lapels and cross-over front design, she had 3/4 sleeves and only came in sizes XL to 4XL. Maxine is a modified version of the earlier Christina style, the Maxine was offered in cotton canvas and lovely prints. 

  

  

  MONICA

  The bold colour-block style of Monica was made in tandem with Marcia in the spring of 2015. Diane pulled her inspiration from 1960's bold geometric styles and eye-catching colours. This dress was made in a smooth rayon-poly blend. She was a streamlined design that came in two colourways; Navy/green Black/hot pink. 

  

  

  The 2nd part of the "M" dresses will be coming your way next week. We hope you're enjoying this flashback through the years as much as we are!

   XOX Cherry Velvet