Eye Eye Celebrates Fall Fashion With In-Store Eyewear Event

It's already been a week since the Eye Eye "Fall Frame Event" on Capitol Hill and I'm still buzzing with excitement about all the cool frames and vintage glasses the store has in stock right now. We always talk about updating our fashion wardrobes for fall and I feel like that should also include what we're wearing on our FACES. Am I right?

For newbies, Eye Eye is an independent eye clinic and optical shop located on Capitol Hill. In addition to personalized eye care, the team led by Dr. Will Pentecost also offers a curated assortment of frames and sunglasses from over 27 brands. Plus, in true Seattle style, they also offer an insanely incredible assortment of vintage deadstock that gives clients who want something different a one-of-a-kind eyewear experience.

The store carries a range of brands that have a legit celebrity following because you know, if Haley Baldwin is wearing white frames with corner accents, I need them too. Featured brands include Alhem, which recently won a Vogue Fashion Award, Christian Roth, which re-launched Kurt Cobain's signature white sunglasses (pictured above), Krewe, Mr. Leight, and even local brand Rain City, among others.

Oh, and if you're like most Americans who stare at a computer screen all day and experience eye fatigue, Eye Eye can put non-prescription, blue light blocking lenses into any frames. Seattle blogger Brittany Streissguth of Pumps & Plaid (pictured below) recently got a pair to wear while she's blogging to help protect her eyes.

Another fun fact? Eye Eye can put a prescription into snow goggles, which is perfect for people who want to hit the slopes but hate wearing contacts. This is such a brilliant concept and I had no idea it was a "thing". Turns out it is and it's so perfect for the Pacific Northwest where we relish in outdoor adventures during the winter months. 

Eye Eye also carries a high-quality private label line that is budget-friendly and ideal for those looking for an alternative to designer frames. In addition, they have an in-house lab which can turn around frames in 2-3 business days. 

The event was a fun opportunity to see how this cool local company is doing eyewear differently. A variety of bloggers and influencers came out to celebrate and guests enjoyed light bites by Gourmondo Catering (another local favorite!) and swag bags filled with local products from French Girl Organics and Oola Distillery. I can't wait until the next event!

Eye Eye

1317 E. Pine St. 

Seattle, WA 98122

Photo credit: Karya Schanilec

October 11 is National Spread Joy Day

With everything going on in the world today from natural disasters to politics, we all need a little levity in our lives. Spending time on social media has become draining instead of empowering but Seattle-based Knack wants to change all that and spark a new movement on social media that promotes love, kindness, and gratitude. They've formally declared October 11th as National Joy Day and guess what? It's now recognized as an official holiday. To celebrate the occasion, Knack wants to help YOU spread a little joy in the world and will be giving away 1,000 free gifts next Thursday, worth over $80, to anyone willing to let them publish their gift message to serve as an inspiration to others.

The gift includes Fran's Chocolates, 2 special edition Joy journals to capture daydreams and happy moments, Happy Tea from the Art of Tea, Joy candles, mini matches, and 10 Spread Joy postcards. Head over to the Knack website to learn more about National Spread Joy Day and sign up to send a free gift.

Seattleites are invited to celebrate Spread Joy Day in-person next Thursday, October 11 at Chophouse Row on Capitol Hill from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. There will be free food, music, giveaways, and most importantly, lots of joy to share and savor. See you there! #SpreadJoyDay

New Hair for the New Year: essensuals London

Good hair is hard to come by, especially in Seattle when a good blow dry almost always equals a downpour the next day. First there's the matter of finding a stylist who understands your vision, then there's the drama of the front desk where inflated egos run rampant, and of course, there's pricing. Too little and you know you're in for a hairy ride, too much and you're forced to hide your receipt so that your significant other doesn't know how much you actually spend on your hair. (I've only had to do that once....) The real answer to good hair is a trip to Capitol Hill's newest salon essensuals London. Located on 11th and Madison, essensuals London offers accessible pricing, a friendly vibe and insane amounts of experience from quality stylists who are eager to help you achieve the hair you've been dreaming about. Yes, I do happen to be obsessed with the city, but to me, London is a lifestyle concept that should have it's own hashtag. With cuts starting at $55, pricing is affordable, the staff is welcoming and the salon environment is unmatched in more ways than one.

Boasting a friendly but firm no asshole policy, (which I strongly feel should apply to life in general), salon owners and twin brothers Jason and Robert Townsend welcome guests to experience their minimalist salon that caters to urban clients looking for fashion-forward styling. In addition to giving guests great hair, stylists at essensuals London also focus on educating clients by providing city-centric tips on how to manage their mane. Love a hot shower after a brisk Seattle day? Beware of hot water that can fade your hair color and cause split ends. To prevent damage without sacrificing your shower, clip hair up while shampoo and conditioners soak, then lower the water temp before rinsing. After years of spending excessive amounts of time in salon chairs, I thought I was well-versed on hair care. Turns out, even I learned a few new tricks to keep hair healthy and make it shine.

Jason and Robert grew up in the salon scene and developed a passion for it. Their mother was a stylist and often kept the boys out of trouble by having them sweep floors and clean brushes. These seemingly menial tasks ended up having a major impact on the twins and helped them to develop a strong work ethic that still serves them today. They understand the importance of the salon atmosphere and know how vital it is to shaping the customer experience. At essensuals London you'll find the usual amenities that you would expect at a traditional salon including complimentary coffee and tea, but you'll also find a place that feels familiar because the staff welcomes you like family and makes you feel right at home.

Each stylist at the salon specializes in their craft and takes a collaborative approach to styling clients. In my case, Robert worked on my color and patiently sat through endless pictures of Kim Kardashian on Pinterest so that he could understand my "vision". After the color was complete Jason did the cut and worked on shaping my long layers for maximum movement. The process was seamless and the experience was a lot of fun.

Locavore's will love the fact that many of the salon details are locally sourced including the reception stand and coffee table. Both were made locally by Timber & Ore out of reclaimed wood. The salon sign was also made locally by the artists at Noble Neon.

The atmosphere at essensuals London is inviting and fashion is at the forefront of this community salon. If it's been awhile since your last good hair day, you owe it to yourself to start the New Year off right. Tell the boys I sent you.

essensuals London

1156 11th Ave. 

Seattle, WA 98122

www.essensualslondonwa.com

Good to know before you go: Pricing varies by stylist, so if you're on a budget make sure you're paired with someone in your price range when you book.

Don't miss the Dolce Vita Warehouse Sale this weekend only

Seattle-based Dolce Vita is hosting a weekend warehouse sale featuring deep discounts on clothing and shoes. The event is taking place at the Century Ballroom on Capitol Hill and runs now through Sunday (see specific times below). Nothing over $100. Sounds like a few new pairs of shoes are in my future. Happy Shopping!

The date

Saturday, August 9th from 11:30am-5pm

Sunday, August 10th from 10am-2:30pm

The place

Century Ballroom - West Hall

915 E. Pike St. 

Seattle, WA 98122

The details

Shop till you drop, but keep in mind that all sales are credit card only. No cash. 

For event updates follow along on Twitter @ShopDolceVita. 

Update:

In August of 2014, Steve Madden purchased Dolca Vita Footwear for $60 million. Read the story on Fast Company here. 

In case you missed it: 5 takeaways from Pine & 14th Family Day

If you didn't make it out to the Pine & 14th Family Day today on Capitol Hill please know you were missed. But don't worry. We ate extra astrologically themed cookies from Dianne's Delights on your behalf and penned a short recap of 5 things you need to know about the party. 

#1- Photo fans (myself included) got a chance to nerd-out on Polaroid cameras and film in the Impossible Project's Silver Shade Airstream parked outside Rare Medium as part of their nationwide tour. In 2008 The Impossible Project saved the last Polaroid production plan in the Netherlands and started to invent and produce new instant film for old Polaroid cameras. They even make hardware including the Impossible Instant Lab while lets you transform digital images on your iPhone into Polaroids. Insider tip: Get your own Impossible Instant Lab at Rare Medium on Capitol Hill.

#2- Bootyland Kids is a great place to shop for toys and clothing for kids. Since 1995 this Capitol Hill boutique has been the go-to place for eco-conscious moms who are looking for organic apparel for babies and kids (up to youth size 12), toys, all-natural beauty products and even amber teething necklaces. Insider shopping tip: This is a great place to shop locally for Seattle-based Kate Quinn Organics.

#3- Representing one half of The AstroTwins, local author and celebrity astrologer Tali Edut lives here in Seattle on Capitol Hill. The Pine & 14th Family Day event marked the local launch of Momstrology, the fourth book she's written with her twin sister Ophira. This is an incredibly insightful and easy to read parenting guide that can be used to decode kid behavior based on birth date. Insider tip: There's a reason this book is a best seller on Amazon. Not only does it make a great gift for moms (hello summer baby showers!), it's a priceless guide for anyone who is interested in understanding more about their own astrological sign.  This book is also available locally at the Pacific Place Barnes & Noble.

#4- Well the good news is, should you ever find yourself in an emergency situation on Capitol Hill you are in good hands. The friendly team at Seattle Fire Station #25 on Pine street had a great time showing kids around the station and letting them take pictures on the trucks. Look closely in this pic and you can see the disco ball that hangs from the ceiling above one of the trucks. The disco ball was apparently rescued from a night club that was being shut down on the hill. #onlyoncapitolhill

#5- Last but not least, the Pine & 14th Family Day event would not have been possible without help from our sponsors including Seattle Metropolitan magazine, Dianne's Delights, Nuflours, and Talking Rain. We also want to give a big thank you to everyone who helped us spread the word about this community event including The Capitol Hill Blog, SkinnyPurse, Fresh Jess, Style Logical, An Emerald City Life and BellingFAM.

Please visit Facebook.com/GossipGlamour to view event photos.

Save the Date: Pine & 14th Family Day on Capitol Hill

The AstroTwins will be making an appearance at Rare Medium on Capitol Hill, Saturday, May 24th from 10am-3pm to promote the launch of their newest book Momstrology. Come meet the twins in person, get a free mini astrology reading, satisfy your sweet tooth with treats by Dianne's Delights and NuFlours and enjoy family-friendly activities at other businesses on the block including Bootyland Kids, Aria Salon, The Project Room, Moxi Salon and more! For a full line-up of the Pine & 14th Family Day activities visit momstrology.com/familyday. This is a free event that is open to the public. Bring your families and come enjoy a fun day out on the hill!

Goodwill set to open brand new Capitol Hill store

This Friday May 2nd, Goodwill will welcome the public to it's brand new Capitol Hill location. The 15,000 square foot store previously occupied by Half Price Books will feature apparel, accessories and home goods. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 9am on Friday and to celebrate the new store opening the first 200 customers into the store will receive special giveaways and door prizes. The party continues all day long and will include a special Friday night party from 4-9pm featuring hourly giveaways and music from C89.5 DJ's Gabriel Zus and Harmony Soleil.

Opening just a little after Earth Day, the new store will appeal to shoppers who want to limit their impact on the environment by purchasing quality, reusable items. Last year, Seattle Goodwill recycled over 47 million tons. Shoppers get the added benefit of knowing that the net proceeds from their purchases help Goodwill provide free job training programs to low-income and underserved individuals in the community.

Goodwill Capitol Hill

115 E. Belmont Ave. E. 

Seattle, WA 98102
On Twitter @SeattleGoodwill

Good to Know: The new store has a small parking lot! We all know this is rare on the hill, so get there early and take advantage!

Strong Women Strong World Fashion Show Fundraiser

Join the city's best boutiques as they help raise money in support of World Vision's Strong Women, Strong World campaign, dedicated to empowering, protecting, nurturing and educating women around the globe. The event will take place at Fred Wildlife Refuge on Thursday, September 12th, 2013 and will include a runway fashion show featuring The Finerie, Kris & Kate, Vian Hunter House of Fashion, Hub and Bespoke, Velouria and The Clothing Company with additional designers and retailers to be announced soon. A fundraising goal of $10,000 has been set by event organizer Clarissa Holmes and donations can be made directly to the show's Go Fund Me page. This powerful event aims to support sustainable change for women around the world. Help make this event a success! Spread the word, do your part to increase awareness in your social circles of the Strong Women, Strong World campaign and take part in this inspirational community event by purchasing your ticket today! Event sponsors include Cafe Vita, The Stranger, Gossip & Glamour, and Business Among Moms. The event will also feature donation bins to support the YWCA's Dress for Success program.

What: Strong Women, Strong World Fashion Show Fundraiser

When: Thursday, September 12, 2013

Where: Fred Wildlife Refuge 127 Boylston Ave. E. Seattle, WA 98102

Time: Doors open at 6pm for VIP's/Media and 7pm for general admission

Tickets: $30-50 Available via EventBrite

Seattle Shopping Guide: Capitol Hill

Known for being one of the most playful neighborhoods in Seattle, Capitol Hill is home to some of our favorite places to shop, eat and indulge. Whether you live on the hill or are visiting for the first time, we hope you'll find a few hidden gems in our Capitol Hill Shopping Guide. 

Totokaelo

Pronounced (Toh-toh-kye-oh) this beautiful Capitol Hill boutique features an array of beautifully designed and thoughtfully curated fashion, housewares, furniture, lighting and art from all over the world. Featured designers include 3.1 Phillip Lim, Assembly New York, Rachel Comey and Isabel Marant. Shopping tip: Bring your man! Totokaelo Man is now open on the lower level of the store. 

1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

www.totokaelo.com

Le Frock

Counting over 20 years in business on the hill, Le Frock Vintage has a fabulous selection of now and then designer clothing for men and women. In store you'll find everything from Prada shoes to vintage earrings and fur coats. Shopping tip: Check back often for hidden gems like Marc Jacob handbags and must-have jewelry to complete your look.

317 E. Pine St. Seattle, WA 98122

www.lefrockonline.com

Melrose Market

Making it's debut in January of 2010, Melrose Market instantly made an impression with it's community-inspired space featuring fresh flowers, organic produce and local vendors. Featured businesses include Marigold & Mint, STILL Liquor, Bar Ferd'nand, Rain Shadow Meats, Sitka & Spruce, Melrose Vinyl Market, and Butter Home. Melrose Market is also home to Melrose Market Studios, a 5,000 square ft. event space. Shopping tip: Cheese lovers: Don't miss the Cheese 101 tasting classes hosted by Calf & Kid. They feature locally produced products from farms all over the Pacific Northwest. 

1501 Melrose Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

melrosemarketseattle.com

Pretty Parlor
Voted Seattle's favorite vintage and indie fashion boutique, Pretty Parlor carries clothing, shoes and accessories from "the 20's through the 80's".  Right now they're really into Great Gatsby-themed outfits, vintage swimsuits and summer-inspired accessories like colorful sunglasses and beaded necklaces. 
119 Summit Ave. E. Seattle, WA 98102
www.prettyparlor.com
On Twitter@PrettyParlor

Veridis Clothier

Located on East Pike, Veridis is a contemporary clothing store for men and women that features independent designers from around the globe including Kain, Greylin, Tart, Rozae Nichols, Clover Canyon and more. Shopping tip: Spend $100 and get free shipping anywhere in the U.S. 

1205 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122

www.veridisclothier.com

UnderU4Men

Stocking over 50 brands of mens underwear, gym wear and swimwear, UnderU4Men located across from Roy Street Coffee on Capitol Hill is the place to shop for men's undergarments. Featured brands include Hugo Boss, Diesel, Versace, Puma, Calvin Klein and more. Shopping tip: Taking a road trip to Portland? UnderU4Men has a second location on SW Washington street. 

709 Broadway East Seattle, WA 98102

www.underu4men.com

Retrofit Home
Featuring home goods like wall art, mirrors, furniture, decorative accents, clocks, candles and more, Retrofit Home is a great place to visit on the hill. Stop by for colorful inspiration for the home including books and last-minute house warming gifts for those with a quirky sense of humor. 
1103 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122

www.retrofithome.com

Paris Eastside
Part cooking school, part French boutique, Paris Eastside offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in Parisian food, art, home goods, wine, jewelry and more. Tip: Check the schedule of events for classes on how to make macarons. 
816 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122
www.pariseastside.com
On Twitter@ParisEastside

Terra Plata

Located on the south end of Melrose Market, Terra Plata is one of the yummiest places to eat on Capitol Hill. With an "earth to plate" concept, Terra Plata serves fresh food inspired by the seasons. The menu features house made potato chips with truffled sea salt, Yakima asparagus with ricotta, king salmon and red quinoa tabouleh. 

1501 Melrose Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

terraplata.com

Grim's
Owners describe the atmosphere at Grim's as "steampunk meets silent hill". We describe the atmosphere as "totally awesome" citing the liberal use of reclaimed and recycled materials to build tables, fixtures and lighting elements. Don't miss the mini grilled cheese sandwich from the small plates menu which comes with a delicious tomato basil soup "chaser". Tip: Looking for an intimate setting to dine with close friends? Head up to the Butterfly Lounge!
1512 11th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122
www.grimseattle.com

Dilettante Mocha Cafe & Chocolate Martini Bar
If you're a chocolate lover you definitely don't want to pass up a trip to Dilettante's for a Midnight Espresso Martini. The chocolate at Dilettante's is mind-blowing and the truffle mochas are good too! Tip: Don't miss out on the martini of the month! 
538 Broadway E. Seattle, WA 98102
www.dilettante.com

FGI Seattle hosts Fall/Winter '13 Trend Event on Capitol Hill

Fashion Group International hosts semi-annual trend event on Capitol Hill

Join FGI Seattle as they explore the top fashion trends for Fall/Winter 2013. The event will include a video recap of the top runway shows from New York, London, Paris and Milan plus a panel discussion of how the trends translate to the Northwest. Moderated by local designer Lizzie Parker  who was featured on season one of NBC's Fashion Star, the panel will include Nordstrom Trend Director Adam Moon, Interior designer and FIDM Alumni Heather Kirk Riley and 425 Magazine Fashion Editor Lauren Foster. During the first hour of sipping, snacking and socializing guests will be treated to a Julep Lipstick Trio so that Jilly Eddy, founder of the Art and Science of Lip Print Reading can interpret the lip prints on a signature 'Kiss Card'. Tickets start at $40 for FGI Members and go up to $60 for general admission. Sponsored by Girly Girl Wines and Gray magazine. What: FGI Seattle Fall/Winter Trend Event When: May 22nd, 2013 Where: Melrose Market Studios 1532 Minor Ave. Seattle, WA 98101 Time: 6-8pm Tickets: $40-60 via Brown Paper Tickets

Seattle University Presents 'On My Block' Fashion Show

The 6th Annual "On My Block" Fashion Show presented by the Fashion Club of Seattle University will take place on Thursday, May 16th at 8pm. This year’s fashion show is themed around the unique style and persona of Capitol Hill. The show will be held at the FRED Wildlife Refuge located on Belmont Avenue and will feature live entertainment by DJ Bgeezy, Breaklites, and the Flavr Blue. Featured boutiques include Free People, Zebra Club, Aprie, Alive & Well, PRC, Blackbird, and Lucky Vintage. Tickets start at $10 for students and go up to $25 for VIP access.  All proceeds benefit the Seattle chapter of the YWCA's Dress for Success program. 

What: "On My Block" Fashion Show

When: Thursday, May 16th, 2013

Where: FRED Wildlife Refuge 128 Belmont Ave. E. Seattle, WA 98102 

Time: Doors open at 8pm

Tickets: $10-25 available at participating boutiques and via Brown Paper Tickets (Event ID: 376054)

Photo credit: Mike Monaghan