Real people: When the streets bloom

Forecast, April in Montréal: thronged streets with a high probability of joy. The sun is not the sole cause of celebration: A child has chalked a message on the front walk; a young woman blows bubbles on St-Laurent; "Bambou" the cat was found!

When I observe real people as they enjoy the first mild days, I am drawn to those whose whose eye is more important than their wallet.  

A look straight out of the '70s: bright midi dress, jean jacket, suede ankle boots. Not at all "the latest thing", but the way she carried herself showed she was happy to finally take those flowers out of the closet. 

She waited for the dentist, like me. Green cords; golden brown top; peach scarf; the coat (which looks white here) is dove grey, and the bag, taupe. The clothes themselves are basics but look what she's done with colour!

This is an entirely different approach: long black skirt with sheer lace overlay, brown long-sleeved top, and a one-shouldered tank. Her white earrings, tote, and sneakers leavened the neutral palette.

Friends strolling, for those who ask me to shoot women in the Passage. Notice the woman at the left in case you need to justify that scarf you've been eyeing—how it lifts a generic sweater-and-trousers. Her friend's top twists the ubiquitous stripes just so.

There is a category in my head titled You Do You, or as my mother would say, "It's a look." She stopped me in my tracks, but I pulled off one shot. She did not stop Le Duc, carrying the shopping, at right. From the flowered hat to the lace-edged capri leggings, this woman was merrily out on her own terms: dirndl gone wild.

Speaking of Le Duc, he and I both noticed a handsome young musician who boarded the bus. He was smiling as he found a seat, an open, sweet expression. He carried an instrument; musicians, do you know what it is? His case is rectangular, not bell-shaped like a violin case; is this too large for a flute?

We thought he looked like a young Bob Dylan, an effect amplified by tumbling curls, and under his blazer, a shirt scattered with tiny flowers, very '60s.

Mother and daughter, both in what is often called "Gentlewoman Style", the pared-down, on the strict side manner of dress. I like how they relate, but each is in her sphere. 

The second shot enlarges Madame, so you can see details: the layered necklaces, a fitted white tee with a neckline more feminine than a unisex crew, interesting sunnies. The jacket is long enough that it does not cut her mid-thigh. (Hard to find!) And she's another one in white sneakers, springing up like tulips now. 

It is not at all "look at me", but I did, admiring her attention to fit and balance.

I'll be out with my camera more often now that we can actually see clothes!