Mar 31, 2010

Shu Umera to Close U.S. Operations


L’Oréal USA reported on Monday that it will close all U.S. operations of Shu Uemura Cosmetics. (And of course, this comes just as I recently became addicted to their Essence Absolue Protective Oil). In 2000, L’Oréal took a 35 percent stake in Shu Uemura and went on to acquire a controlling interest in the company in 2003. In addition to Shu Uemura, the Luxury Division of L’Oreal USA Lancôme, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren and Kiehl’s brands, as well as a number of fragrance licenses, including Viktor & Rolf and Diesel. “We love the brand, but it is a very small part of our portfolio,” Carol Hamilton, President of L’Oreal USA’s Luxury Division told WWD of Shu Uemura. “It’s a simple decision after a very complex analysis: we have a very large portfolio, and we want to focus on growing the brands which have a larger presence in the U.S. market.”

Currently Shu Umera is available at various locations including Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York, Bergdorf Goodman, Nordstrom and four freestanding Shu Uemura boutiques. L’Oreal is now working on an exit strategy for the brand in the U.S. Market, but don’t worry, followers of the line will still be able to purchase the products online at shuuemura.com.
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Mar 30, 2010

Jodi Arnold Spring Trunk Show



Canopy Blue is hosting a Jodi Arnold Spring Trunk Show April 12th-17th with a special kick-off party Monday, April 12th. "At the end of the day, I just want to create clothes that have a soul–an authenticity," says Jodi Arnold. 


Canopy Blue
3121 E. Madison St. Suite 103
Seattle, WA 98112 


Become a Jodi Arnold Fan on Facebook by clicking here
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Petite Picks from Miss Selfridges


If you're 5'3 and under you already know that clothes fit better when you shop in the petites section. The problem is that not all retailers have a petite section which can make keeping up on the latest trends a major dilemma. But don't worry. Miss Selfridges has an entire petite section with everything you need for spring. 


This beautiful dress has a sweetheart neckline and an embellished collar. The back has a silver exposed zipper that makes a fabulous finishing touch. This dress is perfect for date night.


Or how about this blush pink sleeveless dress with contrast black lace trim? So perfect for a day of shopping in the city. (Preferably at Harrods of course). 


Or you could skip the girly theme altogether with this adorable striped sweater dress adorned with ice cream cones. 

And who can forget the shoes? There's something for everyone this season from embellished flats to peep toe booties.




And don't forget the accessories! Rosebud studs and vintage floral bows are oh-so-cute for spring!



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Mar 29, 2010

NY Fashion Academy Runway Show

Ballard's New York Fashion Academy's next runway show entitled Pour l' Amour (For the Love) will be held on Saturday, April 10th.  There will be 2 shows including one at 7:00pm and a second showing at 9:00pm. Alumni of the academy include Jesica Milton, Karly Orr, Kimberlee Iblings of Deco Modiste, and Liise Wyatt. Come support the local fashion scene and celebrate beautiful craftsmanship. 

What: New York Fashion Academy Runway Show

When: Saturday April 10th

Time: 7:00pm and 9:00pm

Where: New York Fashion Academy, 5201 Ballard Ave NW. Seattle, WA 98107

Tickets: $20 in advance/$25 at the door. 
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Mar 28, 2010

Liberty of London + Manolo Blahnik


Liberty of London has announced a special collaboration with Monolo Blahnik The London-based department store has commissioned the designer to create a "World of Manolo", an in-store boutique that will open in September. The assortment of merchandise which will feature Liberty of London prints will include scarves, candles, Wellington boots, notebooks and more.


The "World of Manolo" will open to shoppers in September. Fall fashion can't come fast enough!

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Mar 27, 2010

The Book I Want Right Now


My idea of the perfect dream house includes at least once room with floor to ceiling bookshelves filled with art, fashion and beauty books. One of the fashion books I’d keep in stock is 100 Years of Fashion Illustration by Cally Blackman. The book contains 400 illustrations compiled over the last century and includes an overview of the development of fashion from some of the great fashion illustrators of all time.

Click here to see my list of must-have fashion books!
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Featured Designer: Karly Orr

Seattle native Karly Orr may have received a degree in Communications from WSU, but it’s her love for design that ultimately led her back to school at the NY Fashion Academy in Ballard where she went on to learn the trade and eventually win various design awards including Best Designer for Project Red Dress and Best Collection for Seamless in Seattle.

For her namesake line, Karly combines subtle textures in sophisticated colors for modern yet minimally designed dresses which can be worn from day to night. Prices range $300 - $435.




In addition to working on her own line Karly has also partnered with fellow designer Liise Wyatt on a line called Wyatt Orr. The line features sleek urban jackets for men and women in various combinations of soft wool and genuine leather; some with removable hoods, back pockets and snap closures. Prices range $400-$600.

To view Karly's full collection click here
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Mar 26, 2010

Luly Yang 2010 Tea Show


Seattle designer Luly Yang will present her new collection of Day, Cocktail, Bridal and Cashmere dresses on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel. There will be two showings including one at 12:00pm  and the second at 4:30pm. 

Luly Yang’s inspiration was influenced by Parisian women who are known for being feminine, chic, worldly and sexy; women who take the time to savor life’s many flavors and adventures. Miss Yang’s silhouettes are shapely and feminine, with form fitting knee length dresses and skirts. Her suitings will be accompanied with timeless cashmere separates along with her signature bridal gowns. The color palette includes French Vanilla cream, strawberry blush, caramel and more. All fabrics used in the collection were hand selected by Luly in Europe, Asia and New York. 

The Tea show will feature afternoon tea in The Fairmont's Georgian room which is truly a memorable experience. With an array of delicate tea sandwiches and petit sweet delights all served tiered-style, accompanied with beautiful teas ranging from Japan Sencha, Kyoto Rose, Empress Blend 1908, and more. 

About Luly Yang
Since opening her first boutique in downtown Seattle in 2000, Luly Yang is celebrated for her elegant and timeless designs for both women and men. She has been editorially featured in a variety of fashion and bridal magazines nationally, including Seattle and Beijing. Luly opened her second boutique at The Fairmount Hotel in Beijing, China in November 2008. Luly Yang has earned and received many awards, including the prestigious Nellie Cashman Award in 2007 for Women Business Owners; and in 2008 the International Academy of Design and Technology IADT Lifetime Achievement Award.

What: Luly Yang Tea Show

When: Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 12:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Where: Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Tickets: $75 per person. ($35 for children 12 and under). To purchase tickets for the 12:00 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. Tea Show contact Bojana Marusic at 206.287.4049 or bojana.marusic@fairmount.com.

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Mar 25, 2010

Spring '10 Arrives at La Rousse


It may be a few weeks before the entire Spring '10 collection is available on Shoplarousse.com but if you live in Seattle- you are in luck because La Rousse is offering customers 20% off all new spring purchases when they book a showroom appointment. What showroom you ask? Check out the article in Seattle Magazine this month.

Another way to shop is to attend the Spa Noir & la Rousse spring event on April 1st. More details below.

What: Spa Noir & La Rousse present a Spring Fashion, Skin Care & Sidewalk Sale

When: Thursday, April 1st, 2010 - 4pm-9pm | Drinks @ 6pm

Why:
  • Save 20% off La Rousse's new Spring/Summer 2010 collection with merchandise from: Grey Antics (LA), Mary Meyer (NY), Neurotica (UK), Reif Haus (PDX), Sophomore (NY) and more.
  • Save 30% off Spring shoes from Melissa and Slow and Steady Wins the Race.
  • Peruse amazing vintage finds at great prices from $5-$50 (including the sweet dress on our homepage).
  • Save 20% off Eminence skin care.
  • Check out Masha Osoianu's spring jewelry collection.
Where: Spa Noir. 2120 2nd Ave. Seattle.

Don't forget to stay in touch with La Rousse using the links below!

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Mar 24, 2010

Happy Birthday Canopy Blue

Canopy Blue is celebrating it’s 6th Birthday this week with six days of deals for their loyal customers. Monday March 22nd will feature 10% off all bags including Trina Turk and Sabrina Love. Tuesday March 23rd will feature 10% off all Mystique Sandals. Wednesday the 24th is all about belts from Linea Pelle and Kristin Kahle at 10% off. Thursday the 25th will feature 10% off all denim from a variety of premium brands. Friday the 26th will feature 10% off all French Fifty swimwear. Saturday the 27th will feature 10% off all Tory Burch Cardigans in a rainbow of colors. Deals are only good the day they are featured.  Happy Birthday Canopy Blue!

Bonus!
You can also buy your NW Hope & Healing Fashion Show Tickets at Canopy Blue.
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Zovo Lingerie 5th Annual Sale


Zovo Lingerie’s 5th Annual Bra Event is going on now and all bras are on sale, some are even marked up to 60% off. Zovo carries the largest assortment of bras in Seattle ranging from size 28AA to 46K. This year they are even carrying swimwear! Stop by to get fitted and save on a beautiful assortment of new bras!
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Mar 22, 2010

My Random Obsession: Shticks


I love little hand held signs that say what's on your mind when you are too tired, lazy or annoyed to speak the truth. At work I have one that says "FAIL" on one side and "That's What She Said" on the other.  Those two phrases come in handy more often than one might think. My co-workers and I use these signs all day when the moment is right and it provides hours of entertainment to say the least. That's why when a special someone gave me a set of Shticks for work I was instantly obsessed with abusing them. With phrases like "I quit", "This Sucks", "Wrap it Up", "You're Fired" and "Get to Work" there's a sign for every occasion. 

Lol. The warning on the box says "Shticks are a fun way to communicate only when conditions and situations permit. (I beg to differ because I think these signs are ALWAYS appropriate). The warning goes on to say: Do not use while operating a motor vehicle.
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8th Annual NW Hope & Healing Fashion Show

Look Good, Feel Good and Do Good at the 8th Annual NW Hope & Healing Style '10 Spring Fashion Show. Participating boutiques include Carmilia's, Sweetie, Coastal, Asher Anson, Clutch, Canopy Blue, and Kick It Boots and Stompwear. Hair designs will be provided by Ola Salon.

What: NW Hope & Healing Fashion Show

When: Thursday, April 29th

Where
: Showbox Sodo 1700 First Ave. S.

Time: VIP Reception begins at 6:30 PM. Doors open for General Admission at 7:00 PM.

Tickets: $40-$1,000. Click here.

*Tickets are also available at all participating boutiques. 
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Mar 20, 2010

Alexander McQueen : All About The Shoes



If there’s one thing designer Alexander McQueen will be remembered for besides his fashion collections, it’s his shoes. Most notably, the Armadillo shoe, which McQueen says was inspired by “visions of a ballerina standing on pointe”. The 12-inch heels persuaded several seasoned models including Sasha Pivovarova and Natasha Poly to decline participation in McQueen’s runway show. Each pair of Armadillo shoes reportedly took 5 days to build. My vote is that we put these shoes on a pedestal and put them in a beautiful museum somewhere. They are truly works of art.

How about this boot with the major metal hardware from the Spring 2010 RTW show? Those heels could do some serious damage to my hardwood floors….


This white shoe looks like it was made out of skeleton bones with the spine wrapped around the heel. While this shoe might not be for everyone, I can definitely see why this shoe would appeal to a fashion risk taker. I like this shoe best in black. 


I love these playful pumps from Fall 2009! The ruffle effect is interesting and provocative and the ankle strap was right on trend for the season.


This platform shoe almost appears to be melting into the floor. It’s quite an optical illusion and provides the wearer with some serious height. The Red Queen from Alice in Wonderland would have loved these shoes…


One of my personal favorites from McQueen came from the Spring 2009 RTW collection which featured a basic pump with toe imprints. Check out the white stitch detail.


For those that prefer something a little bit more over the top, I suggest these embellished boots with the Lucite heel (also from Spring 09). The peep toe detail is so hot!


I love these slate gray lace up pumps from the Spring ‘08 RTW show. They’re futuristic and yet completely “now”.  I'm a sucker for hardware on shoes so I'm loving the silver eyelets and skinny heels. 


Inspired by the Japanese Geisha, these shoes are more like stilts than stilettos and yet still designed to provide the wearer with optimum balance through the design. I’m not sure the ankle ties would be enough to keep these massive shoes on my feet for a night out- but they are beautiful to look at none the less.


Flowers were in full bloom at the Spring 07 RTW show as depicted in these beautiful heels. I’d love these for a wedding or a garden party….the hopeless romantic in me is completely drawn to these shoes.


These gladiator style boots from Spring 2006 remind me of Wonder Woman. I love how they seem to slither up the model’s leg but I find myself wondering what kind of tan lines you would end up with if you wore these in the sunshine for too long.


I'm a sucker for reptile skin so when I saw these shoes from the Spring 08 RTW show I died and went to heaven. I would wear these shoes with a dress, or denim, or even a business suit if I had such an occasion. And hello multiple colorways! 



We will miss your creative designs and playful spirit Alexander McQueen. 
1970-2010

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Mar 19, 2010

Olivine Returns!


Daily Candy broke the news today that Olivine Atelier has returned as a web-based boutique! The Ballard brick-and-mortar store closed in 2008 and now it's back and better than ever! Choose from a full assortment of clothing, shoes, accessories, beauty products, and even products for mom and baby.




Olivine is even offering free same day delivery if you live within the greater Seattle-area and spend at least $200. Not a big spender? No worries! You can still get free standard shipping with your $50 order!

With a brand selection that includes Prairie Underground, Dace, Michael Stars, Kimberly Baker, Suzabelle, Kai and Lulu Beauty you really can't go wrong. Click here for a 20% off coupon code from Daily Candy.

Happy Shopping!
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