May 16, 2021

I Know A Place: Seattle Fashion Edition


As a long-time Seattleite who loves exploring, I know many places around town that truly make this city a magical place to live. We have gorgeous bodies of water surrounding us, clear skies, clean air, and innovative ideas. My friends frequently come to me to ask for recommendations on hidden gems around town like must-visit boutiques and great places to dine with kids. I constantly find myself saying the phrase, "I Know A Place", so it's only fitting that Visit Seattle asked to highlight a few of my favorite places for their spring campaign. Long-time readers may remember that I partnered with them last fall on a series of posts about where (and how) to shop locally during the holiday season. You can view those posts here, here, and here

For our latest collab, I explored the city through a fashion lens by visiting beloved book stores, new pop-ups, and indie shops that are too good to miss. My family and I capped the day with a delicious dinner at Goldfinch Tavern before turning in for the night at the Four Seasons. Here's an overview of our itinerary filled with insider tips for safely exploring the city in style. 


I know a place....that curates a gorgeous assortment of global fashion brands. 

Flora & Henri has been locally owned and operated since 1998. The Seattle concept shop located on the corner of First and Jackson in Pioneer Square is visually stunning and perfectly curated with beautiful products for the entire family. At Flora & Henri, you'll find a mix of local favorites like handbags from Ampersand as Apostrophe merchandised next to dreamy, global favorites like dresses from Italian brand Loretta Caponi. View a round-up of my favorite spring must-haves here


I know a place...where you can shop local for ethically made clothing and shoes.

Clementine's in Pioneer Square offers fashion fans a unique place to shop from small brands who value slow fashion. Owner Linda Walsh is passionate about providing an inclusive space for people to make conscious fashion choices. Featured brands include Paloma Wool, People Tree, and Prairie Underground. The store is currently open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 


I know a place...where you can shop an amazing selection of local authors. 

If the pandemic was good for anything, it was simply to remind us that we're always just one book away from a great escape. Elliott Bay Book Co. on Capitol Hill is a full-service, locally owned bookstore home to over 150,000 titles. As a lifelong bookworm and #ShopLocal fan, I love the fact that they give valuable shelf space to local authors including astrologer Stephanie Gailing, who released not one, but TWO books during quarantine. Stephanie's latest books, The Complete Book of Dreams and The Complete Guide to Astrological Self-Care offer readers a holistic approach to everyday wellness. As a Virgo, I'm a big fan of astrological insight and after devouring Stephanie's dream book, I'm really excited to dive into her self-care guide that features sections for each of the twelve zodiac signs. 

* Elliott Bay Book Co. also carries the Seattle Style: Fashion/Function book by MOHAI curator Clara Berg, which originally accompanied the 2019 Seattle fashion exhibit.  


I know a place...where you can shop one of Seattle's best heritage brands. 

Filson has been around since 1897, originally outfitting prospectors passing through the city on their way to the Klondike gold rush. The Seattle flagship is a fun place to experience the roots of the brand and witness its evolution. In addition to shopping in person, customers can opt for curbside pick-up for orders made over the phone. Same day delivery services are also being offered from the flagship store within a specific radius. Visit the store later this month and you'll be among the first to experience new arrivals to Filson's limited-edition Smokey Bear Collection, a continued partnership designed to communicate the importance of wildfire prevention. New products from this special collection will be available at the Flagship starting on May 28. The product mix includes a variety of must-have items including a Smokey Bear enamelwear camp set, authentic ranger hat, and full zip hoodie. 


I know a place...where you can shop an incredible selection of international fashion magazines.

Earlier this year, Big Little News quietly opened up shop on Capitol Hill. Woman-owned and operated, this hidden gem is brimming with specialty magazines like British Vogue, Elle UK, Paris Vogue, and more. In addition, you'll also find indie magazines that cover a variety of interests and must-have items to accompany your reading material, like bottles of champagne and giant boxes of candy. 


I know a place...where you can shop a limited time pop-up featuring amazing brands. 

Seattle's beloved Baby & Co. boutique closed its doors locally last summer due to the pandemic but they're back in town for a limited time only as part of the 10th Ave Collective Pop-Up happening now through June 6. Located on Capitol Hill in the old Totokaelo space, the 10th Ave Collective features apparel and accessories from Baby & Co., art from Robin Layton, and home goods from Susan Wheeler. I picked up a bottle of the Poets of Berlin perfume by Vilhelm while I was at the shop this weekend and it has quickly become my new favorite fragrance. 


I know a place...where you can shop a great mix of local designers that handmake their goods in Seattle.

Located in Belltown, Sassafras is a retail shop and fashion studio home to a variety of local brands including Stone Crow Designs, Bartle B., and La Macón by Shari Noble. The shop is a hub for independent fashion designers from around the city and offers a great way for fashion fans to shop a selection of local brands all under one roof. Personal shopping appointments are available and can easily be booked online.  



I know a place...where you can enjoy an amazing dinner complete with sweeping views of the Puget Sound. 

Goldfinch Tavern, located at the Four Seasons, serves up Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine featuring locally-sourced ingredients. From the drinks menu, start with the Smoked Manhattan and then move on to my favorite main course: Cedar Plank King Salmon served with vegetables from Pike Place Market. As a side dish, you have to try the Goldfinch Lobster Mashers. I'm still dreaming about the decadence of this acclaimed side dish.  Insider tip: Flat rate parking is available when dining at the restaurant. 




I know a place...where you can escape the ordinary and enjoy a staycation in the heart of the city. 

Four Seasons Seattle is the perfect place to visit when you need to recharge but want to stay in the city. We loved the views from our room of the Washington State Ferries and of the iconic Seattle Great Wheel. Room service is a must for breakfast (my daughter highly recommends the blueberry pancakes) and if you have time, the spa is a magically rejuvenating place that is good for both the body and soul. The Infinity Pool overlooking Puget Sound is also open daily for guests from 6  a.m. to 9 p.m. 


What are your favorite places to shop around town? I'd love to hear from you! Send me an email or leave me a comment on this post and tell me your favorite shops to explore around town. 

* This post was written in partnership with Visit Seattle. 

Share:

May 15, 2021

The Seattle Spring Skincare Guide

Spring has finally arrived and spas around Seattle are offering up a great mix of seasonal treatments and signature favorites. Treating yourself to a spa day is a true form of self-care in my book. Here’s a round-up of the 5 best treatments for spring available at spas around town, plus a bonus recommendation for those of you who are craving a mini road trip.


Peachy Keen Mangosteen Scrub, Yuan Spa


To celebrate spring, Yuan Spa is on a mission to help guests get the ultimate glow with their new "Peachy Keen Mangosteen Scrub" designed to slough away dead skin and boost circulation. Guests will then be treated to a generous application of 'Peachy Keen' whipped sugar scrub by Lalicious followed up a quick rinse and liberal application of Mangosteen moisturizer by Eminence Organics. Fun fact: Yuan Spa is open every day until 10 p.m. so if you're crazy busy and prefer a late night at the spa, you're in luck. 60 min./$140



Circadian Rhythm Detoxifying Facial, Still Spa


Still Spa at the Woodmark Hotel in Kirkland is now offering a luxurious and detoxifying facial that helps to rejuvenate skin and enhance the body's natural cellular repair system. The Circadian Rhythm Detoxifying Facial helps repair skin from free radical damage while adding antioxidant support with natural Kaolin Clay. The service is finished with a moisture boost from natural honey. 60 min./$150


Microneedling, Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa


Microneedling treatments have been a true game-changer for my skin. I used to suffer from terrible acne scarring on my cheeks but microneedling has offered me a natural approach to skin rejuvenation. The results have been amazing and my skin continues to get better with each treatment. The service is similar to a facial but involved using microscopic needles to create micro-injuries designed to trigger cellular turnover and repair skin from the inside out. Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa on Queen Anne offers a variety of microneedling packages that can be customized to fit your specific skincare concerns. Single treatment, $375


Botox, Skin Spirit


If last year's constant Zoom calls highlighted the frown lines on your face, you're not alone. The spring season is a great time of year to get a boost of Botox. I'm a big fan of this treatment and swear by it for relaxing frown lines and preventing new ones from forming in the first place. When getting Botox, it's important to find an experienced injector who can assess your specific needs and customize a treatment plan for you. I'm a regular at Skin Spirit and highly recommend their amazing team for a variety of services including Botox, and injectables (Juvederm, Restylane, Sculptra, etc.). If you end up booking a service, please tell them I sent you!


Thermogenic Mud Cocoon, Four Seasons Spa


One of the things I missed the most during the pandemic was visiting The Spa at the Four Seasons. As a mom of two, I take self-care seriously. "In the before", a.k.a. pre-pandemic, I used to sneak away at least once or twice a year for a massage at the spa and a visit to the Eucalyptus steam room. One of my favorite things about the Spa at the Four Seasons is that you can easily valet park and head straight up to the spa making the entire experience truly seamless. For a unique experience, try the Thermogenic Mud Cocoon service. It's a purifying wrap that deeply cleanses the skin and helps detoxify sore muscles and stiff joints. 80 min./$285


CBD massage, Glade Spring Spa at Suncadia


Located just 90-minutes East of Seattle, Glade Spring Spa at Suncadia is a great place to visit when you want to get out of the city and recharge at the spa. I recently experienced my first CBD massage and walked away feeling incredibly relaxed. In fact, I don't know how I'll ever enjoy another massage without the natural benefits of CBD oil. You can add CBD to any massage at Glade Spring Spa for an additional $35. I highly recommend it!


What spring skincare services are you excited about this season? I'd love to hear from you! Send me an email or leave me a comment below.

Share:

May 12, 2021

10 Must-Have Spring items from Flora & Henri


Spring has finally arrived in Seattle and when it comes to seasonal essentials that transcend the test of time, Seattle boutique Flora & Henri in Pioneer Square has you covered. From easy accessories to summer hats and apparel, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 


Janessa Leone Aisley Hat

Aisley Hat by Janessa Leone - The easiest way to finish off a spring outfit is with a stylish hat. This one by Janessa Leone is lightweight and comes in a neutral color that looks great with just about everything.  Handwoven with Panama straw. Made in the USA. 




Flora Henri Satin Dress

Flora & Henri Silk Satin Floral Dress - This delicate dress is made from 100% silk and features an elastic waist, self-tie belt, and adjustable straps. Perfect for breezy summer days and long summer nights. Pair with a white sneaker and classic denim jacket. 

The Great College Sweatshirt

The Great College Sweatshirt - During the pandemic, sweatshirts became like a second-skin to me. I lived in them and loved the warm embrace.  These pieces will transition well into summer when paired with shorts or jeans on a cool summer day. The Great College sweatshirt is based on a vintage style and features double-washed terry for a soft hand feel. 

Alumnae Knotted Sandal

Alumnae Knotted Sandal - Made in Italy, these comfortable leather sandals will be a staple in your spring wardrobe. Hand-knotted and featuring covered elastic, the Alumnae Nappa Luna Sandal will quickly become the go-to shoe in your wardrobe this season. 


Sydney Evan Cherry Necklace

Sydney Evan Cherry Necklace - Easy accessories are the PERFECT way to transition your wardrobe into spring. I love this cherry necklace by Sydney Evan. It's made from 14k yellow gold and has pavé black diamonds and gorgeous green emeralds. This necklace makes a great gift, too!

Veja Kid Shoes

Veja Kid Sneakers - We can't forget about the "littles" in our life when it comes to spring fashion. I love these Veja Kid velcro sneakers available at Flora & Henri. These eco-friendly shoes are made in Brazil using wild rubber from the Amazonian forest. Fashion mamas can get themselves matching shoes, too. 

Tensira Long Apron

Tensira Apron - I didn't suddenly start baking sourdough bread during quarantine, but I did start cooking more and found myself constantly reaching for a durable apron. I love this one from Tensira, which is named after a small village in the Republic of Guinea known for its specialization in dyeing with indigo. 


Brass Watering Can

Brass Watering Can - "Watering Wednesdays" is a thing at my house and since it's official, I've decided that I might as well water my plants with the most stylish watering vessel I can find. Thankfully, flora & henri stocks a brass watering can by Ilse Crawford for Skultuna that I am obsessed with. Not only does it elevate a tedious task, but it also brings joy with repeated use. Take my word for it. 


Yves Saint Lauren Biography

Yves Saint Laurent Book - Flora & Henri curates a great selection of books for every type of reader. I'm particularly drawn to books about fashion, like the Yves Saint Laurent biography, available in hardcover. It's a beautiful coffee table book filled with interesting insight on the French fashion designer. 


Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Spirits - Raise your hand if you're guilty of drinking a little too much during COVID. (If you're not raising your hand, you are either under 21 or you're lying). Made in my favorite city in the world, London, these spirits are non-alcoholic and perfect for those who want to partake in the festivities without drinking actual alcohol. Sugar-free, calorie-free, and perfect for sipping, this one tastes like Allspice and cardamom with a fresh citrus top note. 


If you've been craving a fashion field trip lately, I highly encourage you to visit Flora & Henri in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Street parking is readily available and if you come during the day (Monday through Friday) you can stop by General Porpoise for a freshly baked donut on the way out. 



Flora & Henri is located on the corner of 1st and Jackson at 401 First Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104. Shop online or visit the Seattle store. Head over to their website for current operating hours. 


Share:

May 5, 2021

Boma Celebrates AAPI Heritage with Treasured Collection


Boma Jewelry has announced the launch of a new collection designed to celebrate and advocate for underrepresented voices in the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. The 10-piece Treasured Collection will debut on May 1, 2021 and 100% of the profits through the end of May will be donated to the AAPI Community Fund. Dedicated to CEO Suzanne Vetillart’s late grandmother, Loy Tee, the Treasured Collection was sustainably designed with circularity in mind, using a mix of deadstock green stones including Jade, Agate, and Aventurine, each stone symbolizing valued virtues including protection, self-confidence, and good luck.

“Jewelry is meant to represent and remind us of who we are,” said Suzanne Vetillart, second-generation owner of Boma Jewelry, “As I wear my necklace designed in honor of my grandmother, I reflect on the connection and courage I feel wearing something that fully reflects who I am. The result is something that is based in cultural symbolism yet remains unique, like me. The Treasured Collection is a representation of that sentiment. Today we are facing a continued rise in racism and violence against Asians. This collection pays tribute to the past and stands as a call to action for the future.”

Highlights from the collection include a signature Agate Bi-Disc necklace, Jade pendants available in sterling silver and 14k gold, and stud earrings featuring Aventurine beads. All items from the collection were ethically produced in-house at the Boma factory in Bangkok, Thailand using deadstock gemstones and recycled metals.



During the month of May, 100% of profits from the Treasured Collection will be donated to the AAPI Community Fund which aims to address urgent issues in the AAPI community as well as broader, systemic problems. Donations are being received through GoFundMe.org and grants from the fund are being allocated to various AAPI organizations and partners working to address racial inequalities.

Prices for the Treasured Collection range from $50 for the ‘Opportunity’ Aventurine stud earrings to $125 for the ‘Assurance’ Agate pendant necklace. Shop now





About Boma Jewelry

Boma Jewelry is a leading social purpose corporation focused on using fashion as a force for good. Specializing in high-quality, ethically-made jewelry, Boma offers unparalleled quality and true transparency to customers and valued partners. Through its vertically integrated supply chain and 40 years of experience creating fine jewelry, Seattle-based Boma Jewelry demonstrates that being good to people, conscious of the planet, and prosperous as a family-owned company is achievable when long-term goals are prioritized over short-term gains.

Share:

10th Ave Collective Hosts May Popup Featuring 6 Seattle Businesses

Capitol Hill Shopping Pop-Up

In an effort to bring back a sense of community to Capitol Hill, a small collective of local businesses will band together under one roof to host a month-long pop-up shop in the space formerly occupied by Seattle boutique Totokaelo. Starting on Friday, May 7th, and running through June 6, 2021, a multifaceted pop-up will emerge featuring book signings, designer features, shopping, and a listening lounge. Participating businesses include Baby & Co. (men's and women's fashion), Tune Hi-Fi (home audio), Fleurish (floral design studio), Robin Layton (artist and photographer), Susan Wheeler Home (housewares and decor), and Easy Street Records. 

"After a year of hardship and separation, we want to create a vibrant environment that enhances the 10th avenue restaurant and street scene to revive a feeling of community," says Baby & Company owner Jill Donnelly. Due to the pandemic, Baby & Co. was forced to close its First Avenue storefront and transition into a new space in Sun Valley, Idaho. The Donnelly's are excited to be back in Seattle for this special pop-up to reconnect with friends and fellow fashion fans. The gallery-inspired retail space will be open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will also host weekly open house events on Friday evenings. 


Line-up of events:


● 
Friday, May 7: Welcome Back, Baby! Mother’s Day gift ideas featuring fragrances from Vilhlelm Parfumerie, bouquets from Fleurish, and a signing of Robin Layton’s photography book The Lake.

● Friday, May 14: At Home showcase featuring Susan Wheeler Home, flowers from Fleurish, and a listening lounge with Tune Hi-Fi sponsored by Easy Street Records.

● Friday, May 21: Made in LA designer capsule event featuring Los Angeles–based designers sold at Baby & Company, including Jaga, Esquivel Shoes, Louiza Babouryan, and MATiAS Denim.


Pop Up Details

What: 10th Ave Collective Pop-Up 

When: May 7 - June 6, 2021

Where: 1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122


The popup will follow the CDC’s COVID-19 guidelines and city mandates requiring the wearing of face masks, limiting capacity, and requesting that shoppers maintain six feet of social distance.

Grab your friends and come #ShopLocal at this fun Seattle pop-up that's around for a limited time only. 

Share:
Blog Design Created by pipdig