News » what's new
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What's Up and Coming
Published Sep 16 2020 in Cape Coat, Cherry Velvet, Fall 2020, Veronica Belle, what's new
How about a little update about what's happening here at Cherry Velvet? We've settled into our new digs and we're loving it here. But we're sure you're all wondering what's coming in the way of new and pretty things...
For starters, coming soon is a new wool cape design for Fall in 5 beautiful shades. This item sold out last year so we've designed another updated version just for you. It's not only goes perfectly over your dresses, but you can wear it with just about anything from jeans to cosplay, and style it anyway from casual to dressy. It's the perfect weight to transition the seasons if you're in a colder climate. But if you live in a more temperate area, this could do for most of the cooler months of the year.
Just to show you how great our new A Cappella Cape looks over our dresses, Veronica Belle models it over our Marie Dino Might dress. (P.S. Don't wait on this dress, some sizes are already sold out!)
New for fall we've designed a blouse (we're excited!) that will be coming in 4 new prints including the music print you may have helped us name. (Winner TBD) There will also be a new necklace in music notes!🎵🎶 Here's a peek at the blouse fabrics:
There will also be a new Coat Dress (more details closer to the release) and another new dress style called Jacqueline that will unfortunately be coming a little later than originally planned as there has been a fabric delay. Sneak peeks of all the fabrics for this dress will be on our social media channels in the coming weeks.
In other news, we're thrilled to have a new staff member, Leah Tuttle. You might recognise her as she has done some modelling for us. Here she's wearing the Marlene dress in Cherry Tart-an. Leah has also been our sales agent for Western Canada for over 10 years and as such knows our brand inside and out!
We hope you've enjoyed our update. Thank-you for all your amazing messages and photos. We love you all and miss seeing you at our studio shops.
Take Care, Be Kind and Stay Safe
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Frock Flashback: The Marie (New ones coming soon!)
Published Aug 07 2020 in Cherry Velvet, Cherry Velvet Dresses, cotton, Marie, New Dress, What's new
What better time to reminisce on past dress releases than Flashback Friday? Today we're doing just that, looking back on some of your all-time favourite prints in the unique, smart design of our Marie dress.
This dress was named after the brainiest of babes, Polish-French scientist Marie Curie, who discovered Radium and Polonium. Many of our Marie prints, right from its inception, have been focused on things intellectual girls love.
Right off the bat, we need to talk about its shining feature: the zipper front! That is definitely a modern take for a retro-inspired dress, and it adds so much to the design. You can play with the amount of cleavage you want to display, making it so versatile, you can wear it to work or for a fun night out!
On top of that, if you've tried the Marie before, you know that the zipper's superpower is that... you never need help to zip up! Now that's smart design!
The sharp collar and sleek lines give it a look that's both prim and proper for a cool geeky look or a little bit edgy for a rockabilly style!
2017 Release
Our first release was a total success. We had prints like Genius, which is like a blackboard covered in equations; Jet Set, with postcards from famous tourist spots around the world; Double Feature, with popcorn and drinks for the cinephiles; and Mini Donuts... who doesn't love mini donuts??!
Genius, Mini Donuts
Jet Set, Double Feature
2019 Release
For last year's release, our brainy look was the Chemistry Cu-Te, an ode to all lab-dwelling beauties. The geeky Spaced Out pays homage to classic Atari video games; Jelly Jam is a marine biologist's dream with a multitude of cnidarian specimens, and Prismatic Peacock was geometric with classy gold details.
Chemistry Cu-Te, Spaced Out
Jelly Jam, Prismatic Peacock
Coming Soon
Our upcoming release has already arrived in the warehouse, and we couldn't be more excited to share these new dresses with you! (we're just waiting for the official photos) You may have seen some of these prints on our social media as you've been helping us name them. Here is the complete assortment:
Floral Fireworks, Spot On, Roses Are Dead, Our unnamed Owl print, and Dino Might
Are you excited about the new frocks? Which are your favourites? Stay tuned for a new Name That Print contest soon, and for the announcement of the release!
We can't wait to see you in these new looks!
XOX Cherry Velvet
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Moving on up!
Published Jun 12 2020 in Canadian Designer, Cherry Velvet, Cherry Velvet Dresses, Customer Appreciation, Fit, inspiration, Made In Canada, Made in Vancouver, sizing, Staff, staff updates, Vancouver-designed, what's new
We have some big news....!
After many years in Vancouver, we are moving our operations to New Westminster. We close our doors in East Vancouver, at the end of June. We will definitely miss the bright and creative atmosphere of this neighbourhood; it was always so inspiring to be surrounded by local artists.
We've made so many memories in this studio. One of the first notable ones is our #stunningatanysize shoot which we made right before we moved into our fresh new space.
Since then, we've done so many photoshoots and events, What a pleasure it's been to be here. <3
Cherry Velvet's "Pucker Up Party" Valentine's Day Event, 2016
Our Men's Shirt Launch, 2017
“What about Studio Shops and Personal Shop Appointments?”
For the time being, it will not be possible to shop in person. However, we will be holding Pop-up Shops and doing events when it becomes safer to do so. The best way to find out what's happening with us is to sign up for our Newsletter (Not to mention 15% off, if it's your first online order.)
Getting Your Best Fit OnlineDuring this time of transition, we encourage you to shop online. We are always happy to help with fit and answer your questions.
"The very best way I can accurately help you with fit is to email your measurements. It is just as important to me as it is to you to ensure your dresses fit!" ~ Diane
Please also be sure to check out each style's specific fit guide (found on each product page).
Don't have a tape measure? Click here for our printable, handy dandy solution!
So that's our big announcement! :) We're so excited about the future ahead, and we always appreciate your continued support.As always...more new dresses coming soon!
XOXO
Diane Kennedy & The Cherry Velvet Team -
NEW DRESS ALERT! :: Introducing The Leanne
Published Feb 28 2020 in Cherry Velvet, Design process, New Arrivals, New Dress, prints, what's new
May me introduce you to our freshest creation... The cool, new girl in town...
Welcome our latest dress - The Leanne!
We've named her after one of our most committed (and tall!) customers :)
Leanne has photos of all her Cherry Velvet prints in her phone. Isn't that smart!As always, it was of the utmost importance for us to design a frock that flatters. That’s why our designer, Diane, always makes 2 different patterns for each style; one for regular sizes, as well as one for plus sizes. This ensures the scaling is a perfect fit for every size.
With this design, we aimed to create a new classic. We wanted a dress that is the ideal canvas to feature new, exciting (and most importantly, beautiful) prints. A look that’s a crowd pleaser. Gorgeous garb with new, BIGGER pockets.
Can we all get a hell YAY!?
In this first release of The Leanne, we picked some wonderful prints that had our hearts fluttering in excitement. We’re sure there’s a print that will make your heart flutter, too!
To demonstrate its beauty, we created these simulated images - These frocks are still factory-fresh and have not had the pleasure of having their own photoshoot yet.
Let's begin with our "Infinity & Beyond" print. Space themes have always been highly requested, and galaxies are both beautiful and awe-inspiring. It's no wonder this subject seems to captivate so many; We're all made of stardust, after all.
From the highest height of space, to the deepest depths of our wonderous ocean, we present our "To Dive For" print! This look is all about the unique vastness under the sea, featuring beautiful reefs and colourful marine life.
Some would say this print reminds them of the classic Windows 2000 screensaver. Points for nostalgia!
Looking for something sweeter? When you set your eyes on our "You're My Jam", which is a classic "strawberries on the vine" print, you can practically smell the Smuckers! Don it, and it dawns on you; the thought of picnics in the sunlight, daisy chains and decadent fruit pies cooling on a windowsill.
...At last (but not least), our two final offerings:
Full of tropical treasures; these vibrant themes will bring summer fun with you, wherever you go. BUT! These two beauties are still unnamed, so make sure you follow us on our Facebook and Instagram, and participate in our popular, upcoming "Name That Print" contests!
We hope you love our Leanne dress, as much as we love Leanne, herself. ❤️
It was our pleasure to announce this dress with prints it will come in and we hope this teaser has tickled your fancy!The Leanne is available online right now - click here to see it!
Come try it on at our next Studio Shop:
Friday, March 6th - 2pm to 7pm
Saturday, March 7th - 11am 5pmXOX Cherry Velvet
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The Survey Shakedown
Published Feb 20 2020 in Cherry Velvet, Cherry Velvet Dresses, customer feedback, Dresses, pricing, prints, sizing, survey, what's new
As many of you know (almost 300 of you in fact!), we asked you, our wonderful customers to do a survey. We wanted to know what you think, so we can better provide you with the frocks that will most delight you. Thank you so much for your participation. We have a lot of fun and interesting statistics to share!
First of all, congratulations to the 13.6% of you that's part of the "Cherry Velvet Collector’s" Club. You've got yourselves more than 10 different dresses of ours over the years!
It’s not a problem, really. It’s a solution!And thank you to all who have responded our survey from far and wide. We even had a respondent all the way from... Russia!? Spasibo! (That's "Thank you" in Russian 😊 )
Here's something we found out about your style preferences: 60% of you are all for short or cap sleeves. Over 70% like their skirt right below the knee. And about 70% like your skirts either full or A-line, with many of you requesting very full or straight skirts. It’s clear to us that many of you enjoy a very balanced fashion - not too much and not too little!
And finally, the juicy stuff:
Our most popular prints are, by far, the florals and the polka dots. These timeless classics have been remixed in many ways over the years, and we always make sure to bring them back! We currently have many of those available, including the Doris in Black & Red Polka Dot or the Chrissy in Bird of Paradise for example.
Here are some hot takes from what you requested.
1 - Cats Rule and Dogs Drool
Not by a lot, but cats still definitely took the lead here: Cats got 23% preference, and dogs only got 14%. It's nothing to bark at, but it's certainly the cat's meow to hear!
2 - You really looooooove Space
With an incredibly high amount of mentions – between stars, space, and galaxy, we have just about 20 specific requests for Space themes. Don’t worry, ladies, we’ll keep them coming (out of this world)!
3 - You want Dinosaurs, Books, Music, and Geometric Prints
What does that say about our audience?
Maybe you're a math-loving brainy bunch, with a palaeontology hobby, erudite music training, who love spending time in libraries familiarizing yourselves with the classics of English literature!
We're not sure we can find a print specifically with all those factors in at once (what a print it would be, huh?), but we hear you! We'll make sure to incorporate (or perhaps already did... mua-ha-ha!) these very hotly requested themes into our next seasons. Stay tuned!
And the most unexpected requests were...
Krakens and Yetis.
Nothing against them, but those prints might be hard to find!
Best friends foreverQ&A
On our Survey, you also had the chance to tell us anything you like, and it was so delightful to hear your feedback and concerns. Most of the comments were so sweet - we were smiling all day reading them!
We’d also like to answer a couple of the more frequently asked questions here. Although we’ve addressed some of these before, we’re more than happy to revisit them.
- Manufacturing issues (slight fit inaccuracies)
All our garments are handmade, very carefully by local seamstresses here in metro Vancouver. As such, we can often deliver a much higher standard of quality than clothing manufactured overseas. There can, however, be some small variations from seamstress to seamstress. No different than getting your latte from different baristas There is also the off chance that a garment can get the wrong size label. While it is RARE to see a manufacturing flaw, they do happen, so please inform us immediately so we can fix that for you.
- Limited sizing
All our dresses are limited edition runs; if you love a style, you may want to grab it in your size quick. We enjoy knowing that as each limited run sells, our clients will have the satisfaction of knowing they are one of a few to own that special print.
As much as our mission statement is to provide amazing dresses so you can be lovely and stunning at ANY size, it is not always possible to have every print in every size. Running a fashion business that produces ethically poses some unique challenges that brands which manufacture overseas won’t face. Costs can often be prohibitive, and there are minimum quotas and specific requirements when it comes to placing orders. In general, we try to have a broad selection of sizes. We do, however, occasionally opt to produce fewer in certain sizes or skip them altogether for these reasons.- What’s up with the pricing?
The pricing reflects much more than just the fact that most of our dresses come in limited edition availability. Our frocks are ethically manufactured in the same city as our headquarters, Vancouver BC, Canada. Wages in Canada are much higher than other countries and our minimum wages are very much on the rise (which is a good thing for workers!) Our production does not rely on certain “more affordable” options, we choose the best quality zippers and fabrics we can get our hands on. It’s ethical production, and that's how we've chosen to function. We strongly believe this is a necessary step for the fashion industry. We want no part in the suffering of workers in unsafe conditions. Although our garments may take more saving up for, we 100% stand behind the fact that they are worth it.
We always love to hear your feedback, please feel free to write us and tell us what you think!
XOX Cherry Velvet
P.S. Hope to see you this weekend at our Warehouse Sale / Studio Shop:
Friday Feb 21 from 2-7 pm
Saturday Feb 22 from 11-5 pm
@1635 Powell Street, Vancouver BC
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Holiday Greetings!
Published Dec 24 2019 in behind the scenes, Canadian Designer, Canadian Made, Cherry Velvet, Cherry Velvet Dresses, Customer Appreciation, Employee Appreciation, Made In Canada, Made in Vancouver, Thank you, Vancouver-designed, Vintage Inspired, what's new
It's been another wonderful year, we thank you, all of our beautiful fans and customers for your support. It absolutely fills our hearts with joy to see our customers smiling; our dresses making you feel confident and ready for anything.
We know none of the success we've shared with you wouldn't be possible without *you*, and to be completely honest, it wouldn't be nearly as enjoyable without you, either. So, once more, we want to express our great appreciation to you for being on this journey of fabulousness with us.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays, the merriest of Christmases and nothing but the very best for the New Year and beyond.XOXO With Love from all of us Diane, Julia, Logan, and Tracy.
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That Gleam In Her Eye...
Published Jun 28 2019 in Cherry Velvet, Customer Appreciation, Fashion, handmade revolution, jewelry, Made In Canada, what's new
As a proudly Canadian company, we love working with local brands and businesses that exemplify the level of care & quality that we maintain ourselves.
...So...that being said...
...have you met Pam? ♥️
She's the lovely face & talented hands of Mirror Mirror Bijoux, a well-known local jewellery designer here in Vancouver, BC and an overall entrepreneurial force.
She also loves our dresses 😘 (She's Team Chrissy!)
Under MMB, she designs and handmakes vintage-inspired jewellery that echoes old Hollywood glamour. Primarily working in crystal and glass, she adds elegant detail like ethereal finishes that sparkle like the night's sky.She’ll often also incorporate real vintage beads or brooches into her pieces, giving that legit Vintage vibe.
CV Aficionados will be quite familiar with her & MMB, we not only carry her jewellery, including exclusive pieces, but she sometimes drops by our events...
...and often pops in to collaborate with our designer, on the next beautiful baubles to go with our dresses.
Whenever they meet, they pour over a multitude of beads and pendants, to create complementary pieces that add versatility and flair to our clients' wardrobe.
Recently, she's branched out to save us all from the worst thing imaginable...A bad hair day!
Have you tried a Great Hair Day Turband? We have!
They're easy-to-wear, insta-wow accessories for those days when a ponytail or plain ol' hat simply won't do.
Want to try one? Pam will be on hand at our next studio shop weekend @ 1635 Powell Street with a variety to try!
Friday :: July 5th :: 2pm-7pm
Saturday :: July 6th :: 11am-5pm
We hope you enjoyed this little spotlight on one of our favourite local entrepreneurs.
We think it's so important to support our fellow #womeninbusiness ♥️XOX Cherry Velvet
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Events Calendar NOW LIVE!
Published Jun 07 2019 in Cherry Velvet, Cherry Velvet Dresses, Customer Appreciation, Dress, Dresses, Made In Canada, New Arrivals, what's new
...We interrupt your regularly scheduled blog post for an ANNOUNCEMENT!
Ever since we started holding regular open studio shop weekends, we've wanted to make sure ya'll can Save-The-Dates on our events as soon as you can. We understand how busy life can get and want to ensure everyone has a chance to get some retail therapy in. #selfcare is a thing, after all 😉
Have a peek at this month below & bookmark our new Events Page!
Can't make it out? Can't wait? :: Book a Personal Shopping Appointment with us! ::
We can't wait to see y'all! ♥️
XOX Cherry Velvet
BLOGGIN' NEXT WEEK :: PART 2 of our customer spotlight on The Snow Family.
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A Note from Kim, our Social Media Manager
Published Feb 07 2019 in Kim, social media manager, staff updates, what's new
I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited about a new job as I was on my first day at Cherry Velvet. I knew I loved the product and the brand, and I was looking forward to workdays spent using words and images to promote gorgeous dresses across the internet.
I knew that there was an enormous amount I could learn in this role. It’s been amazing to watch the design process, and to see how a concept becomes a garment. I came to more fully understand what “Made in Canada” really means, and I was proud to be working at business run by a female entrepreneur whose business model insisted that every stitch be sewn here in BC. I also fell in love with the fabric selection process – there is so much cool stuff out there! No spoilers allowed, but let me simply say that there are some awesome dresses coming.
Working the studio shops was incredibly rewarding. I know how difficult it can be to find outfits that make you feel good. Today’s stores are full of cheaply-made, disposable clothing that fits poorly and flatters few. At Cherry Velvet, my most memorable shoppers were the ones who came in with low expectations, defeated from past shopping disappointments. It was a joy to watch the excitement level grow when they realized that they looked amazing, not just in one dress, but in so many styles! I joined in the giddiness when shoppers discovered fabrics that suited them perfectly. Having friends who came by and ending up finding things they loved was an excellent added bonus.
Unfortunately, my time at Cherry Velvet is ending. Why? Every time that my partner and I have visited the Okanagan, we’ve wanted to stay. He was way down the transfer list, so we thought it would be years before we could get out of the city and into the small-town life we were craving – we were shocked when we were told that he’d start at the Kelowna office in March 2019! Relocating means that I need to leave my position here.
I started as a Cherry Velvet customer, and became a proud team member. Now, I’ll go back to buying and wearing the dresses as a consumer (this Stacy dress is at the top of my shopping list!), but I’ll keep my pockets full of business cards. I need to keep telling the world why this is a great company with wonderful products, and I will keep spreading the gospel of retro class with modern sass!
Farewell... but not good-bye!
XOX Kim
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Dresses with Sleeves
Published Jan 31 2019 in Dress, New Arrivals, Pin Up, Roxy, Shelly, Stacy, what's new
One of the advantages of being a small business is getting to know your customers. We love meeting you, seeing your photos on social media, and hearing your feedback. You told us that you want dresses with three-quarter sleeves, so here they are!
Craving Coverage
Many women tell us they feel more comfortable with covered arms, often because of perceived flaws. Those wonderful upper limbs that we use to carry and dance and hug get subjected to endless scrutiny. Of course, we love your arms (and all your other beautiful body parts!), but feeling confident is paramount. If you feel your best with coverage between your shoulders and elbows, we’re here to help.
Asymmetrically Adorable
Our Shelly dress has been one of our favourites in recent years. With a deliciously full skirt, Shelly has excellent twirl potential, and the buttoned cuffs finish the sleeves perfectly. The star of this design is the neck detail – three sweet buttons and a two angled straps draw the eye. This dress is currently available in three lovely prints.
Ravishingly Retro
Roxy joined our collection last year. This dress has a wonderfully vintage vibe, with an open portrait collar and a crinoline-ready skirt. The Roxy comes in five solid jewel tones, and blends beautifully with a multitude of accessories.
Flattering Fit
Our newest 3/4 sleeve dress is the Stacy. This cut was created to highlight your assets, with a ruched bodice and a chevron shaped underbust design that emphasizes your waistline. Right now, you can get Stacy in a spicy, fire-engine red, and a deep, regal purple – stay tuned for black and navy pinstripe versions coming soon!
Remember, we also sell shrugs, so sleeves can be added to any of the dresses you love. And please keep telling us what you want to wear, because we’re listening!
XOX Cherry Velvet
Wishing you the happiest of holidays, the merriest of Christmases and nothing but the very best for the New Year and beyond.
