Posh Blog

I think we are all asking ourselves if we are collectively ready for this new normal, and how we will navigate the next few months? As an eternal optimist, I have to believe it’s time for us to find balance in these changes. As I step out of the door to reopen my beloved shop, I have found myself increasingly looking at how to create more sustainability in everything I do—from the foods I choose to eat, to the clothes I wear and carry at Posh Clothing. We have always worked with ethically and environmentally sound companies and we will continue to support businesses that look to the future.

We are also focused on how to help our clients embody sustainability and renew themselves with renewable resources, such as bamboo clothing! Bamboo is a wood crop that is extremely fast-growing, can grow on degraded land, requires minimal water, and is able to be harvested many times. I have even been told that if you sit beside a bamboo plant long enough, you can actually hear it growing! In light of our current situation, it’s also interesting to note that there was also a study done in 2011 that determined the antimicrobial effect of regenerated bamboo samples was significantly higher than that of the cotton samples (2). As we all decide what to keep in the new normal, and what to ditch in an effort to make our world (and closets!) a better place, it’s good to know that bamboo is currently a more environmentally friendly choice than nylon, polyester, conventional cotton, and viscose from wood (1). Not only is it breathable and thermo-regulating, hypo-allergenic, highly absorbent, easy to care for, but, it is also very soft and luxurious to the touch. And for right now—it also might be as close as we’re getting to bamboo trees until we can travel and explore once more.

See you soon,

Aileen 

References:

(1)     https://www.ajol.info/index.php/jfecs/article/view/69727

2)      https://www.tortoiseandladygrey.com/2014/06/23/environmental-impacts-bamboo-fabric/

My goodness, I am truly having a hard time this year as Mother’s Day approaches. I lost my mother in the spring of 2016, and I miss her so much. During this COVID-19 situation, I miss her even more. 

I was brought up with a loving and caring Mum, who came from Scotland. She lived through the war and the bombing of her city as a child. She remembered the hardships and often shared her experiences with us as kids. Mum always wanted us to be grateful for what we had. When growing up our back porch was always filled shelves of canned good ‘just in case’. We always joked in case of what…WW3?

There was always soup on the stove that would last for days. It started as a broth on Sunday and lasted until Thursday, everyday being different soup. Over four days, Mum would ensure the soup would be constantly evolving; from classic broth, adding vegetables and protein, putting in noodles and perhaps adding more stock and grain. I think that is why I enjoy making soup so much. A home filled with the smell of comfort and security. All made with love!

As we all know Covid-19 has taken away some of our beloved older generation. As Mother’s Day approaches, I am hoping that many of us reflect on some of the eye-opening issues our older generation face daily. I am also hoping that these challenges will be addressed on a permanent basis, not just during this three-month crisis.

To name a few small changes that are happening to support our elders include; opening the groceries stores earlier for the elderly and disabled, saying hello or smiling to them on a walk and taking food to those most of need. In my opinion, this is what the real “social net” should be.

Growing up, Mum always told me it was only common courtesy to always greet folks when walking in the neighbourhood. Sharing food was always common, especially to those in need. On a positive note, recently my Stepmother told me she really felt valued when shopping the other day as a senior. Something as a simple greeting can be a meaningful connection for an elder and will warm their heart.

We all collectively need to be kinder and gentler with each other…just like a good Mother. 

 Happy Mother’s Day!

 Aileen

This self-isolation has been full of surprises!  After days of hibernation, I stepped out and was shocked that the temperature was 17 degrees. I was dressed in my winter puffy coat and sweltered while lining up at the grocery store (on a positive note they had eggs). As I was being teased with the warm weather; I decided the next day I would tackle my closet and drawers for a much needed clean out.

To begin the task ahead of me, I put on a new German radio station that I recently discovered on TuneIn Radio- channel Groove FM .de. To add to the atmosphere, I made a cup of my favourite tea. With no hesitation, I started dumping clothes from my closet and from my drawers. Since my bed and floors were now covered, I had no choice to keep going. It was the point of no return (lol)!

Spontaneously, I made the following rules for myself:

I was not going to be sentimental about any item (easily said than done!).

If they no longer fit, they were adios (this included many of them (lol) especially due to the lack of movement these days!).

If the clothes were three years or older, they joined the clothes that no longer fit.

If I held up the clothing, and it no longer gave me that ‘spark of joy’ it would need a new home (to bring someone else joy 😊). 

Once I was done, I bagged the clothes to go to my daughter who kindly distributes them to those in need. I was astonished by how much space I now had!

I kept what I call my ‘essentials’ which is mostly newer items. For bottoms, I love my Miik bamboo leggings in black (so comfortable!). I now have four pair of jeans and two pair of pants - all for different moods and uses. For example:

Dark black Liverpool skinny jeans look great tucked in ankle boots.

Up blue denim jeans are super casual with sneakers with my new sweater from Repeat.

Grey Mac jeans are perfect paired with sandals or low-heeled mules.

Up print summer pants look fun with a wonderful simple bamboo t-shirt.

When looking over what was left, it occurred to me this is now my ‘self-isolating comfort clothing wardrobe’. To be honest, I am looking forward to warmer air and wearing fresh new summer dresses for my neighbourhood walks. I will treat myself to a fancy dress to celebrate when gatherings are going to be okay (hopefully sooner than later). 

Its been a hell of a few weeks, but with new clothes and an empty closet smiling at me…it makes me feel better with hopes for better times.

As social creatures we often feel raw and more emotional when our cherished traditions or routines are up ended. This may be particularly hard as this holiday weekend approaches. Take a moment and recognize your feelings and give yourself permission to embrace them fully as they are. Remind yourself that this will too pass and when it does your shared times together with family and friends will be even more meaningful. 

Since launching my on-line store, I have learned some valuable lessons as well as receiving some great advice. This has been a steep learning curve for me and in most cases a very positive one. 

Fortunately, I am surrounded by tech savvy people. During a conversation with my lead assistant, I raised the idea of adding reviews to our online store site. Prior to launching my own, I had always read reviews from other sites, especially when considering a purchase. I must confess I am not a frequent online shopper, however during times like this we do not have a choice. 

After doing some digging, we found some interesting facts that I wanted to share. News to me … online reviews in many cases are owned or hosted by third-party companies. These companies may sell your information to others, and then it is out of your control. The bottom line is: YOUR information could then be given to companies other than the one you think you are dealing with!!

I am a big proponent of safety on the internet (i.e. with both my ID and e mail address). To ensure your safety, POSH will not be adding this feature. Instead, we will only be adding testimonials with your permission. 

With today’s climate it is so important be safe. Please pass this on.

Best wishes,

Aileen

Most days I feel like I am in a bad movie and I am pretty sure most of you feel that way too. It looks like it is going to be a long movie. I am waiting for the credits to roll but taking an intermission…

In the past you have basically heard from me about four times a year through email. During this time of social distance/social isolation, unfortunately I do not have the opportunity to see you at Posh. This forces me to change the way I do everyday business. Until things settle down in the world, I will be reaching out through this blog and providing an update approximately once a week. This will include, an update of new styles we have online, special sales happening, discounts available and comfort food recipes (we all love to eat!!).  

To begin, I thought I would share a list of some of things I am doing to keep positive and cope during these trying times:

• keeping a schedule;
• growing my online presence;
• exercising by Zoom with my yoga teacher;
• spring cleaning my house;
• talking daily to family and friends by FaceTime, texting or by email;
• cooking new recipes;
• getting caught up with TV, movies Netflix (i.e. comedians-funny and relevant);
• viewing Ted talks by interesting folks;
• listening to new music stations from around the world;
• making new playlists;
• going back to learning French, again ( lol );
• checking out online art galleries, places around the world, all the wonderful good things that are out there. Google Arts and Culture's Google Earth have launched virtual tours of most incredible national parks.

In addition, I have discovered an app Calm which is really helpful when I feel anxious at night. Who doesn’t want to be read a bedtime story?  Now that we are forced to stay inside see it as an opportunity acknowledge that “Changes are New Beginnings”.

Thanks for reading,

Aileen