Former Dolce Vita Execs Launch Oncept Shoes

While the pandemic has been troublesome for many businesses, it has also created space for innovative new ideas to bloom. Industry veterans Megan Key Campos and Nick Lucio, both former executives at Dolce Vita, have launched a new footwear company for sustainably-minded fashion fans.

Oncept made its debut earlier this spring with the release of five core styles, each named after cities around the world. The collection includes the Athens Essential Sandal, Copenhagen Modern Mule, Nolita Forever Flat, Tokyo Travel Companion, and the London Seasonless Sneaker. With a core belief in conscious design, Oncept made the decision to produce just five styles in an effort to edit the line and avoid overproduction.

The entire collection is ethically made from sustainable materials including overstock recycled rubber, memory foam insole cushioning made from recycled rubber foam and castor bean oil, and nylon sourced from post-consumer recycled polyester. In addition, all shoes are shipped in a reusable, organic tote, without the use of traditional tissue or plastic materials inside the box. Other eco-friendly details include organic cotton laces, recycled insole boards, recycled fabric tags, and TENCEL™ Lyocell linings, which are produced from wood pulp. Learn more about Oncept's commitment to sustainability here.

The London - An elevated, sporty sneaker with a flexible rubber outsole. Available in 3 colors. 

The Athens - An easy, and effortless essential sandal. Available in 7 colors. 

The Copenhagen - An elevated, modern mule. Available in 4 colors. 

The Tokyo - A lightweight sneaker for everyday wear. Available in 6 colors. 

The Nolita - A minimalist, versatile flat. Available in 7 colors. 

This line is perfect for fashion fans who want to shop with their values in mind. Oncept shoes are versatile, easy to wear, and will seamlessly transition from season to season. Prices start at $250 USD.

// Shop the full collection of Oncept Shoes //

Holiday Gift Guide: Style Urban Essentials

The holidays are upon us which means that it's time to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. We're lucky to live in a city that's rich with so many amazing designers, neighborhood boutiques and international brands that help make shopping local a cinch this season. Here's a round-up of our favorite urban style essentials. 

Just as Anna Wintour advises the audience in the movie The September Issue "There's always a way to wear fur", in the Northwest there's always a way to wear cashmere. Made from 100% Mongolian Cashmere this asymmetrical poncho by Issaquah designer Paychi Guh is perfect for crisp Seattle days.

Speaking of cashmere, for a serious splurge you can't go wrong with this gorgeous oblong cashmere coat by Schai. Made in the USA this collarless coat made of 100% cashmere from Italy is fully lined and perfect for fall.

These ombre-inspired glasses from SEE Eyewear are my favorite way to instantly add color to any outfit. Available with clear lenses or a prescription, these glasses are fun to wear and will instantly perk up you entire face. Which really means you can wear them, put your hair in a pony tail and even get away with wearing less make-up. Who knew a pair of glasses could streamline your get ready routine too? Pictured: SEE Eyewear Style #9254.

For under $30 this sleek faux cheetah and white lambskin slim wallet by Jonquil & Mr Black makes a great stocking stuffer. Handmade in Ballard these wallets are perfect for urban living. 

Holiday hopping can be an adventure and if you love discovering something new you'll want to check out the 8telier pop-up shop going on now at Pacific Place. You'll find a host of urban essentials at the shop including leather jackets, knit tops, cozy cardigans and even small home goods like bar soap from local line Blackbird. 

For a great gift on a budget I recommend these booties by Seattle-based Dolce Vita shoes. Priced at $100 flat these suede ankle boots are versatile and have a heel height that is completely manageable, even in the rain. 

And underneath it all every stylish Seattleite needs gorgeous lingerie. Visit Bellefleur Lingerie in Fremont for a beautiful selection of sophisticated and chic lingerie. My personal pick is the Pansy collection by Freya. (Pictured: Freya Pansy Midnight Bra and matching brief)

Like what you see? Please share and stay tuned to Seattle Boutique Blogspot for more #ShopLocal Holiday Gift Guides!

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. 

Fabulous Florals for Spring '13

Spring has made its arrival to Seattle and what better way to celebrate then with these fun floral trends. Whether your heading out for a night downtown with the girls or relaxing at home with a cup of coffee, there’s a way to incorporate this cheerful trend for every occasion- and don’t be afraid to mix and match!

Scarves: Floral scarves are great for Seattle Spring weather and look fabulous with a denim jacket or simple white T-shirt, creating a cute and casual weekend ensemble. Juniper Boutique nestled in the warm and welcoming Madrona neighborhood has a beautiful selection of made by hand floral scarves by the line le.sens out of Germany. Juniper is one of the few shops in the U.S representing the gorgeous line, and were lucky to have them here in Seattle. Definitely step into this charming boutique and check them out.

Pants: Pair floral pants with a crisp white tank and nude colored heels for a look that can be worn day or night. Bliss in Fremont has several beautiful pair’s of floral skinny jeans that could easily be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Shoes: From sky-high heels and chunky boots to chic flats, florals are seen on just about every type of shoe this season. For a laid back look, slip on a pair of floral print tennis shoes with a cute cardigan and skinny jeans. For the undeniably largest selection, Nordstrom is the place to go for floral footwear. We adore this pair of Kate Spade ankle strap wedge sandals!

Dresses: You can’t step into spring without a floral dress in your closet! Dolce Vita in Bellevue has several for the season, as well as a variety of bright floral tops and floral lace peplums. If your out shopping on Capitol Hill, step into Aprie where you’ll find an assortment of cute floral sundresses and accessories as well as the stores in house brand Kiup, which is designed here in Seattle.

Accessories: If you prefer to be a little more subtle, jewelry is a great way to incorporate this bold trend into your wardrobe. Add a surprising accent with floral earrings or a bright floral necklace. Karan Dannenberg Clothier in Belltown has a wide variety of spectacular floral inspired jewelry that will be sure to add a feminine touch to your outfit.



Contributed by Emma Hollomon

Designer Warehouse Sale

You may have heard the buzz- but if not, stop what you’re doing and block out your calendar immediately for next Sunday, May 3rd when some of Seattle’s best boutiques will gather together for a huge warehouse sale! We’re talking about savings of 50-90% on apparel and accessories for men and women from stores like Blackbird, Clutch, Dolce Vita, The Finerie, Impulse, Marqsmen, Magnotti Antiques and Horseshoe. Event organizers have even added a “Buy Green” section to the sale which featuring vintage and recycled designer goods. Plus, there will be dressing rooms available and free parking!

Date: Sunday, May 3rd, 2009
Location: Bellevue’s Meydenbauer Center
Hours: 10am to 5pm
Admission: $10 at the door (kids under 12 are free)
Payments: Cash is preferred. Some vendors will take checks or credit cards.
Dressing rooms: Yes
Parking: On-site lot (free) or street parking