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I can't say I have ever been in Draper's & Damon's in the eight years it has been in The Bell Tower. I was pleasantly surprised to explore this upscale ladies store ... upscale in fashion but reasonably priced ... style within reach!

It started in Irving, California and has been in business for 80 years with 50 stores! That's quite a track record! I was given the tour by Pat Martin the store manager and told they carry XS, Petite, Missy in 6-18, even Plus sizes. So there's something for everyone.

What a great selection of 100 percent poly, ultra suede that is washable and great for travel. It looks and feels like real suede. A luxurious feel for less, found in solid colors or for a great look of affordable glamour. Try their new collection of faux suede with Cheetah pattern on the jacket with a solid yoke and sleeves complete with solid pants and a knit short sleeved tee in deep purple. There is quite a selection for all you fall travelers . There is new and the traditional travel wear. The textured signature knits are perfect for holiday get-aways as it packs wrinkle-free! The allover floral embossed with goldtone jacket is ideal for parties or cruising, paired up with the pull on pant.

I loved the short fake fur, poly jacket that reverses to a more casual puckered nylon side for $169. Also colorful nylon quilted jackets that reverse to plain color just $139. Double your pleasure!

There were very striking velvets for the holidays that were not heavy AND they are washable! The basic black pairs up with many items from glitzy gold or a beautiful twin sweater set sprinkled with glitter. Sophisticated formal evenings or opening night are meant for the sleek tuxedo knits with satin trim and rhinestone clasps. The tuxedo jacket can be worn with either the elegant long skirt or pants. A breathtaking georgette jacket with cutout work has a twin set and palazzo pants. Or the Autumn leaves jacket ensemble. The chiffon jacket is embellished with gold beads and sequins, paired with palazzo pants in sheer georgette and a bronze top ...Wow!

There are many exciting holiday items but don't forget the casual wear. I saw baby French terry or plush velour with attention to the detail on each piece. Envelope yourself in a cloud of warmth and softness. Light weight and a wonderful price!

A stretch twill pant that slims, shapes and softens your curves in classic style and easy comfort combined in a great pant. Several colors to choose from. There is a large selection of tees from the tonal stripe to sparkling tees and sueded separates. Snuggly soft and glittery shine in cashmere-like knits with shimmering details.

I loved the many jackets that can be worn with many outfits from the exotic florals, tapestries, to the pretty jeweled tones,and metallic textured knits, an invitation to glamour with stunning values!

Don't forget the classics! There are many racks with classic styles that never go out of style from the washable wool blend pant to cable knit cardigans.

Last but not least is the elegant Christmas blouse, a clip dot chiffon big shirt features golden Lurex threads. Printed holiday symbols add charm, $49.

I must say I was most surprised to see the wonderful selection this very nice woman's store in The Bell Tower has to offer! Besides the lovely selection of clothing they are the only store to carry clip earrings! They have as many clip earrings as the do pierced and have a regular following that comes in often to check them out. I found a great selection of unusual jewelry, clutches, hand bags and scarves as well.

Pat said they offer free in-store fashion shows with lunch on Fridays with an appointment. She also said if you don't find the item in their store that was featured in the catalog they will order one in for you.

So go in to Draper's & Damon's ... as there WILL be parties!

Draper's & Damon's is located in The Bell Tower at 13499 S. Cleveland Ave. Suite 207, in Ft. Myers. Phone: 433-9771.