Nov 26, 2018

Here's what you missed: K Ba-Nana Women In Business Event


It seemed only fitting that at the end of my month-long celebration of Gossip & Glamour turning 8 years old, I had the opportunity to moderate the K Ba-Nana Women in Business event at U-Village. The truth is that surrounding myself with around other women in business has been critical to my success as an entrepreneur and it's something I always recommend to others who are just getting started.

The in-store event featured notable women in business including Nordstrom buyer Jillian Peterson, K Ba-Nana founder Liz Kang Yates, Sweet & Power series creator Carolyn Yuen Marino, and Marabou Design founder Brandy Brown. The conversation touched on everything from how each panelist started their careers and what strategies they employed to overcome adversity along the way.
Here are the top 5 takeaways from the discussion:

Listen - Listening is essential for clear communication yet it's often overlooked in business environments. Take the time to properly listen so that you can avoid assumptions and ensure that everyone is working toward the same vision and goal.

Ask for Feedback -As you move through your career it's important to ask for feedback from colleagues and even clients so that you can learn and grow. In the early years of my career it was difficult for me to take feedback because I always perceived it as criticism, but ultimately hearing the feedback and understanding my patterns was a game changer for my personal development. Asking for feedback continues to be a critical part of my success and an entrepreneur.

Negotiate - As a woman in business, it's important to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, especially when it comes to negotiating. The truth is, these conversations can be tricky on both sides and it's important to remember that the greatest good can only come when both sides navigate them from a place of care and confidence. Whether the conversation is about money or terms of a contract, voice concerns upfront to avoid conflict.

Schedule time for self-care - Whether it's a weekend brunch with the girls or a spa day at the Four Seasons, scheduling time for self-care is a must. "The business isn't going to prioritize you," says Jillian Peterson, "You have to prioritize yourself- the business actually improves when you do." It makes total sense because when you're healthy and ready for anything, it's much easier to get in the flow of business. Self-care can come in many forms, so pick something that resonates with you and establish healthy self-care routines now.

Enjoy the process and have fun - There isn't a singular path to career success. Everyone has a different journey and it's important to embrace the process and have fun along the way. Try new things, experience with different methods as you hone your craft, and when you find yourself in a downward spiral, just remember that Instagram is a highlight reel and not the full, messy, beautiful, story.

If you missed this event, sign up for the mailing list over at Gossip-Glamour.com to stay in the know on future Seattle women in business events and fashion activations around the city.
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Nov 23, 2018

Shop Local Seattle: Small Business Saturday Guide


When I launched this site back in 2008 it was originally called "Seattle Boutique Blogspot" and was designed as a platform to showcase local designers and boutiques. Little did I know that I would still be blogging here nearly a decade later and guess what? I haven't run out of relevant content to share with readers because Seattle is rich with incredible local makers and independent shops. While I may have changed the name of this site over the years, the sentiment remains the same. Shopping local is vital to our community and I encourage you to get out and discover all the gems in your own backyard.

Small Business Saturday is finally here and there are many fabulous ways to shop local this season. We rounded up our favorite brands and boutiques in an easy to use guide organized by neighborhood. Find your hood and get out to #ShopSmall!

// Queen Anne // 

Queen Anne Dispatch - A great mix of fashion and gifts for the entire family, owned locally by sisters Tara Espinoza and Sabrina Rinderle. They can even wrap, pack, and ship gifts anywhere in the world.
Queen Anne Dispatch 2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Peridot - Known for its mix of stylish womenswear and fashion accessories, Peridot boutique is a staple on the hill and consistently provides fashion fans with a fun shopping experience. They have everything from dresses to sleepwear, and even a curated assortment of shoes.
Peridot 2135 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Three Birds Home - You'll want to buy everything in this home goods store including cards, stationery, soap sets, wall decor, Tattly Tattoos, and jewelry. Their holiday decor alone makes it a must-visit boutique in Seattle.
Three Birds Home 2107 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98119

Stuhlbergs - Located on the corner of Queen Anne Avenue and West Blaine Street, Stuhlbergs is literally a Queen Anne home turned into a boutique. You'll find greeting cards, gifts, baby goods including apparel, toys, and keepsakes, plus home furnishings.
Stuhlbergs 1801 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98119

Meadow - This little shop is tucked away from the main street on Queen Anne but it's well worth the visit. Meadow has women's fashion and accessories plus small home goods including soaps and toiletries that make great gifts.
Meadow 1959 6th Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119

Queen Anne Frame - Located on top of Queen Anne Hill, Queen Anne Frame does WAY more than custom framing. They also stock an amazing assortment of jewelry (including some great local brands) plus, they have gifts for everyone on your list including coffee table books and wall decor.
Queen Anne Frame 1621 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa - Although this isn't a traditional retail store, Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa does have a curated assortment of Kari Gran Skincare, Osmosis Skin Products, and private label Bella Fiore fragrances that make great stocking stuffers!
Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa 1629 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

// Capitol Hill //

Sway & Cake - Located near Chophouse Row on Capitol Hill, Sway & Cake is the perfect place to shop for the fashion fans on your list. You'll find women's clothing, jewelry (hello, evil eye necklaces), hats, candles, and even CBD oils. Seriously, something for everyone.
Sway & Cake 1429 12th Ave. Suite D Seattle, WA 98112

Glasswing - In addition to its beautiful storefront, Glasswing provides shoppers with a fun and imaginative shopping experience for men and women. At the store, you'll often find workshops with makers and even classes on how to keep plants alive (I need to sign up for that one). Brands include Ace & Jig, Creatures of Comfort, and Mara Hoffman.
Glasswing 1525 Melrose Avenue Seattle, WA 98122

Likelihood - For the sneakerheads on your list, Likelihood is a must-visit store on Capitol Hill. They stock an assortment of shoes for men and women from brands like Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Puma. They also carry backpacks and accessories including leather wallets from COMME de Garçons.
Likelihood 1101 E. Union St. Seattle, WA 98122

Sharply - For the guys on your list, Sharply is a must-visit boutique on the hill. In addition to their private label collection, they also stock an assortment of menswear from other brands including Grayers, Jeans Shop New York, and Public Art.
Sharply 500 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122

Totokaelo - If you're looking for luxury fashion in Seattle, look no further than Totokaelo where you'll find everything from Balenciaga baseball caps to Maison Margiela bodysuits and Yohji Yamamoto hats.
Totokaelo 1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

Freeman - Since 2010, Scott and Brittany Freeman have been making raincoats that will stand up to the Seattle rain and meet the style criteria of the fashion community. The brand has since expanded to include other categories including knitwear, casual jackets, hats, and socks.
Freeman 713 Broadway E. Seattle, WA 98102

// Downtown Seattle // 

Baby & Co. - You'll find local boutique Baby & Co. nestled on the corner of first and Virginia in Downtown Seattle. For over four decades, this Seattle shop has set a standard of fashion in the city, countering fast fashion with a focus on timeless craftsmanship. The assortment includes apparel and accessories for men and women from brands like Labo.Art, Harvey Faircloth, Homecore, and Lareida.
Baby & Co. 1936 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Jack Straw - Next door to Baby & Co. you'll find Jack Straw which carries high-quality fashion for men and women. In the shop, you'll find a distinct assortment of well-constructed clothing from brands including Issey Miyake, Eidos, and Mazzarelli.
Jack Straw 1930 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Wayward - Wayward carries an assortment of products for adventurer seekers including concert goers, photographers, travelers, and those who love the outdoors. Featured brands include Patagonia, Filson, Richer Poorer, Rains, and local brand Coal Headwear. Local stores are located Downtown and in Bellevue.
Wayward 204 Pine St. Seattle, WA 98101

Moorea Seal - Further down First Avenue you'll find Moorea Seal, often described as a "Pinterest board come to life" the store stocks an edited assortment of apparel, accessories, jewelry, shoes, beauty products, and home goods. They also have a fabulous assortment of greeting cards and desk accessories for everyone on your list.
Moorea Seal 1012 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98104

The Finerie - Opening its doors in September of 2006, The Finerie is where distinctive style meets timeless appeal. Carrying merchandise for men and women, the first avenue boutique stocks a mix of merchandise that takes clients from day to evening, in style.
The Finerie 1215 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Buki - You've heard about collagen supplements, now allow Seattle brand Buki to introduce you to collagen clothing. Launched earlier this spring, the collagen collection allows women to relay moisture to the skin while also providing UPF 50+ sun protection. If you have people on your holiday shopping list that are crazy about the fusion of fashion and technology, Buki is the brand for you.
Buki 1826 Sixth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101


// Pioneer Square // 

Clementines - At this Pioneer Square shop you'll find cool must-have shoes from a variety of brands including Chie Mihara, Intentionally Blank, and  Rollie Nation. Owner Linda Walsh loves supporting local makers so she also stocks apparel from Seattle brands including Poppyseed, A. Oei, and Prairie Underground. Downstairs at the shop, you'll find vintage gems from Swan Dive.
Clementines 310 Occidental Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104

flora & henri - Founded in 1998, flora & henri was one of the first brands to introduce a neutral color palette to children's clothing.  Since then, the brand offering has expanded to include other categories including womenswear, men's accessories, shoes, and home goods in its 3,000 square-foot-concept shop in Pioneer Square. The company does an expansive wholesale business around the globe and is famous for its beautifully crafted childrenswear.
flora & henri 401 First Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104

H. Bailey Curated Resale - Owner Hilary Bailey Burnett curates vintage menswear for her Pioneer Square shop that is designed to help men achieve their signature style. The store features vintage merchandise from the 60's-80's and offers styling services for clients.
H. Bailey Curated Resale 108 Cherry St. Seattle, WA 98104

// Fremont // 

Pipe & Row - Located in Fremont, Pipe & Row is a must-visit boutique for fashion fans in Seattle. Since 2014, owner Kayla Boehme has been stocking her shop with coveted merchandise from brands like Just Female, Wolf Circus, Vagabond, and Stutterheim. You'll also find handbags, sunglasses, and scented candles.
Pipe & Row 611 NE 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103

Show Pony - Featuring a mix of women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories from brands like Prairie Underground and Foamy Wader, Show Pony is a great boutique to visit whether you're shopping for yourself or for holiday gifts. Don't miss the assortment of equestrian-inspired arts and prints!
Show Pony 702 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103

Les Amis - Featured in Goop's Seattle City Guide, Les Amis is one of three stores owned by Seattleite Becky Buford. The roster of stores also includes Essenza and Liten, but for this particular guide, we're focused on Les Amis because of its unique mix of brands including Ulla Johnson, Rachel Comey, and Isabel Marant. We're talking Pacific Northwest luxury fashion gifts worth giving, nestled in a quaint Fremont storefront.
Les Amis 3420 Evanston Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103

Brooks Running - Located on Stone Way, the Brooks Running Trailhead store carries a full assortment of Brooks Running shoes and apparel for men and women. In stock now you'll find great gifts for every runner on your list, including the recently released Ugly Sweater long sleeve tee.
Brooks Running 3400 Stone Way N. Seattle, WA 98103

// Madison Valley // 

Canopy Blue - Canopy Blue has been a staple in Madison Valley since its inception carrying an edited mix of women's apparel and accessories. At the shop, you'll find long sleeve lace dresses by Tallulah, Mother Denim, and must-have pajama sets by Cosabella.
Canopy Blue 3121 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

Emry - Recently opened by Ryan Walsh, Emry boutique is new to Madison Park and has been well-received by the community. It's located in the same plaza as Canopy Blue and stocks fashion-forward merchandise for women including dresses by Parker NY, bodysuits by Amuse Society, and denim by James Jeans.
Emry 3131 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

Lika Love - With 3 boutiques in the Seattle area Lika Love is a fast-growing fashion brand in the city. Owner Malika Siddiq focuses on selecting styles for the store that are flattering on a wide range of body types.
Lika Love 2921 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

// West Seattle //

Carmilia's- If you've ever shopped in West Seattle you'll instantly recognize Carmilia's by its black and white striped awning. Inside you'll find a great selection of merchandise from brands like Three Dots, Veronica M, and Michael Stars.
Carmilia's 4528 California Ave S.W. Seattle, WA 98116

Alair - This neighborhood gift shop is the perfect place to shop local this holiday season. Alair opened its doors in West Seattle in December of 2016 and offers customers a unique mix of gift-able merchandise including novelty tees, key chains, tote bags, greeting cards, and even locally made body scrubs by Estella.
Alair 3280 California Ave. SW Seattle, WA 98116

// Bellevue //

La Ree - Founded by Rachael Nov in 2007, La Ree is consistently ranked a favorite shopping destination of Seattleites and Eastsiders alike. Stocking brands like Jerome Dreyfuss, Veronica Beard, and Isabel Marant, La Ree is also known for carrying merchandise from a variety of local brands including Ampersand as Apostrophe and Serpentine Jewelry Design.
La Ree 11 103rd Ave. NE Bellevue, WA 98004

David Lawrence - Located in The Shops at The Bravern, David Lawrence is a high-end boutique that carries an edited assortment of designer brands for men and women. Featured designers include Jeremy Scott, Versace, and Herve Leger.
David Lawrence 700 110th Ave. NE. Bellevue, WA 98004


// Online //

KACYYOM- Known for her luxurious Italian leather handbags, Kacy Yom's namesake collection recently expanded overseas and is now available in Europe. You can shop the line locally at Kacyyom.com or shop an edited assortment in person at The Spa at The Four Seasons.

Serpentine Jewelry Design - Bellevue moms and best friends Jill and Sally launched Serpentine Jewelry Design as a way of encouraging women to have fun with jewelry and stop saving it for special occasions. In fact, the motto for their line has become "from carpool to cocktails". Yes, you can wear their jewelry from school drop-off to spin class, lunch with the girls, and even dinner + drinks on the town. Select pieces are available locally at Butch Blum downtown and La Ree in Bellevue. You can also shop online at SerpentineJewelryDesign.com.

Beet World - If you have kids in your life, Beet World is a must-visit site for stylish kids clothing. Designed in Kirkland and made using sustainable sourcing and production methods, the size range is 2T-12 and everything is priced at $50 and under. BeetWorld.com.

Loho - Low-rise hosiery for badass babes. Founder Darrah Christel also recently added socks, so check out the line and change the way you think about hosiery forever. The waistbands are a game changer. Learn more at Loho.us.

Andieanderin - Inspired by influential women both past and present, Andieanderin founders Lisa and Cara launched a collection of silk neckties to celebrate boss babes we know and love. The debut collection featured 100% silk pussy bow ties inspired by Malala, Mother Teresa, and even Michelle Obama. The second collection was just released earlier this month and includes ties inspired by the mathematicians at NASA and even local philanthropist Melinda Gates. Shop online at Andieanderin.com.

Jane And The Shoe - This cool Seattle-based shoe company has incredible shoes, all priced under $150. From must-have ankle boots to slip-on mules, this brand has fashion-forward shoes for all the fashion fans on your list. Janeandtheshoe.com.

// Local Beauty // 

K Ba-Nana - This Korean-beauty inspired pop-up opened its doors in late August and will be sticking around through the end of the year. Occupying the old Apple store at University Village, K Ba-Nana has everything you need for holiday gifting including sheet masks, jade rollers, make-up sets, and even Strawberry Pocky.
K Ba-Nana 2656 NE University Village St. Seattle, WA 98105 (New store opening at University Village Spring 2019)

Julep - The nail polish and beauty gift sets from Julep make a perfect holiday gift for the beauty mavens on your list and many of the sets are currently perfectly priced at $25 and under. Shop the full collection online or visit one of Julep's Parlors around town to shop in person. Julep.com.

French Girl Organics - Every single product in the French Girl Organics Collection is handmade in Seattle using natural, plant-based ingredients. My favorites from the line include the Rose Facial Polish and the luxurious Neroli Eye Serum. The brand also recently released bundle sets for the holidays! You can find French Girl Organics at select Madewell stores around town, or shop the entire selection online at FrenchGirlOrganics.com.

Velvet Report - This Seattle-based site helps women find high-quality, vegan beauty products that are non-toxic and chemical free. The assortment includes everything from dry sheet masks, to eyeshadow palettes, and even lipsticks. VelvetReport.com.

Herbivore Botanicals - This local beauty brand has a global following and is well-known for it's safe, non-toxic, and highly effective beauty products. I'm a fan of the Coconut Milk bath soap and I also have my eye on the Wellness Crystal Water bottle. Shop an edited assortment from the brand in person at Seattle boutique flora & henri, or shop online at HerbivoreBotanicals.com.


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Nov 13, 2018

Introducing Fashion Field Trips with Sydlovesfashion


I've been blogging about indie designers and boutiques in Seattle since 2008, so it feels very natural to finally add a video component to the mix. In my first "Fashion Field Trip" video, I take fashion photographer Karla Melgarejo to visit Seattle boutique flora & henri in Pioneer Square. Karla is new to the city and hasn't had a chance to get to know the shopping scene yet. Follow along as we explore the 3,000 square foot flora & henri concept shop together. Watch the debut Fashion Field Trip Video here. 




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Jujubeet launches premium juice cleanse "The Program"


I recently had the chance to check out Jujubeet's new premium juice cleanse and I'm here to report that it is in fact magical. The cleanse has been in development for over a year now and it was definitely worth the wait. I've done a Jujubeet cleanse before and loved my experience, but this cleanse is on another level. The flavors are rich, the packaging is elevated, and every blend is 100% organic and developed by Jujubeet's in-house dietician to nourish the body with a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and phytonutrients.

The cleanse is designed to be consumed in a specific order and includes an assortment of elixirs, juices, smoothies. You're also encouraged to drink additional water in between the juices to help your body detox. I never felt hungry during my cleanse because the juices and smoothies were so filling.  My favorite juice of the cleanse was #2 "Gold" (pictured above) which is designed to help fight inflammation provide a powerful dose of anti-oxidants. The blend includes carrots, apple, ginger root, turmeric, coconut manna, and lucuma powder. I also really loved #5 "Vitality" which is a power smoothie featuring raw beet juice, spinach, dates, cayenne, and almond butter. The flavor blends are delicious and each one contains high-quality, locally sourced ingredients from small businesses in the Puget Sound including Herban Wellness in Kirkland.


This is a great cleanse to do in between Thanksgiving and Christmas to make your skin glow and give your digestive system a break during the holiday season. Grab a friend and sign up to experience a juice fast together. One thing to know about the new cleanse is that it will only be available in limited quantities and only on the first Monday of each month in order to allow Jujubeet to maintain the highest level of quality standards. Visit Jujubeet.com for more information and to view a full list of Seattle locations.
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Nov 6, 2018

Fashion Calendar: HYEI Studio Pop-up by Guillermo Bravo x SILVAE

Two local brands will be featured at a special fashion pop-up at Love City Love in Seattle this Saturday, November 10th from 7-10 p.m. Guests of the HYEI Studio Pop-Up will get to shop womenswear from indie brand SILVAE and be among the first to check out footwear, apparel, and accessories by emerging brand Guillermo Bravo.

The event will include a dye lab and drinks from 7-10 p.m. and remain open until 1 a.m for a dance party with Young Strong. Come celebrate local fashion and meet designer Deborah Roberts of SILVAE and Luis Velez of Guillermo Bravo. #ShopLocal #SeattleFashion



What: HYEI Studio Pop-Up by Guillermo Bravo and SILVAE
When: Saturday, November 10
Where: Love City Love 1402 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122
Time: 7-10 p.m. / Dance Party 10 p.m. - 1 a.m.
RSVP: Via Facebook

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