Fashion Recap: Simone Biles x Athleta Girl Event at U Village

Over the weekend, London and I had the opportunity to host a special Mother + Daughter event at Athleta in celebration of the Simone Biles x Athleta Girl collection. Designed to empower the next generation of strong women, the limited-edition activewear line for girls ages 6-12 features fun colors, breathable fabrics, and built-in reminders that no dream is too big with mantras like "Because I Can" and "The Floor is Yours". 

The gymnastics-themed event included movement, music, light bites, bubbles (for the moms), and "Shine Bright" confidence-boosting worksheets for the girls to fill out. Everyone had a great time shopping, socializing, and meeting the team at the University Village Athleta store. 

I want to extend a BIG thank you to store manager Kelly King for hosting such a wonderful event and making everyone feel so welcome. Her team did an incredible job leading the girls through gymnastics routines and helping to build their confidence throughout the night. Swag bag sponsors included Aveda, Froglegs, Paint the Town, and Supergoop. Thank you to photographer Vivian Hsu for capturing this event so beautifully!

Here's to raising the next generation of strong, confident, and resilient women who dream big and make the world a better place!

Athleta at University Village has a variety of styles from the Simone Biles x Athleta Girl collection in stock now. The merchandise mix includes t-shirts, tank tops, bike shorts, and more. 

Athleta - University Village

2610 NE University Village St. 

Seattle, WA 98105

About Simone Biles

Simone Biles is one of the greatest female athletes of all-time. The first woman to capture five All-Around World Championship titles, Biles is the most decorated gymnast in World Championships history – male or female - with 25 medals overall (19 gold) and is a seven-time Olympic medalist (4 gold). A three-time Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year, she has earned the rare distinction of having four skills named in her honor – The Biles – across beam, floor (two), and vault disciplines. Biles’ extraordinary accomplishments have received widespread recognition including TIME 100 Most Influential, Forbes 30 Under 30, Ebony Power 100, People Women Changing the World, USA Today 100 Women of the Century, and two-time Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year among others. Her autobiography - Courage to Soar - was a New York Times bestseller and developed into an award-winning tv special on Lifetime and her documentary series – Simone vs Herself – that streamed on Facebook Watch is nominated for a Sports Emmy Award. Biles utilizes her platform to help advocate for mental health and support initiatives that provide education and assistance for children and young adults associated with adoption and foster care.

About Athleta

A certified B Corporation, Athleta is a performance lifestyle brand with a mission of empowering a community of active women and girls. Athleta’s versatile premium performance lifestyle apparel is designed by women for women with inclusivity at its core. Founded in 1998, Athleta integrates performance and technical features across its collection to support women across their entire lifestyle – from yoga and training to travel and sleep. In 2016, the company launched Athleta Girl mirroring its signature performance in styles for the next generation. Based in San Francisco, CA and a Gap Inc. brand (NYSE: GPS), Athleta apparel is available at its more than 220 retail stores across the United States and Canada, through its catalog, and at Athleta.com.

The Cura Co. unveils Hanae Collection

The Cura Co. has unveiled a new limited-run apparel collection designed to offer fashion fans ethically-made wardrobe pieces that will effortlessly transition from season to season. The 13-piece Hanae Collection, co-created in Cambodia with Cura’s zero-waste production partners, was made using pre-consumer textile waste that would otherwise have gone unused. Each piece embraces a slow fashion ethos and can be styled in multiple ways to create a variety of looks. The goal of the Hanae collection is to provide timeless foundation pieces for a sustainable wardrobe.

“We are committed to mindful, ethical fashion,” says Cura Co. founder Kiko Eisner-Waters, “The Hanae collection is designed to be seasonless and will be released with rolling drop dates that reflect and embrace our vision for the future of fashion that takes into account both people and the planet.”

Five of the thirteen styles from the Hanae Collection are available now in multiple colorways and fabrications. New styles from the line will be released periodically throughout the season. By embracing a slow fashion production schedule that intentionally pivots from the traditional fashion calendar, The Cura Co. is leading with its commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion. Each piece was designed in Seattle and handmade in Phnom Penh, Cambodia at a female-founded, woman-owned production facility. The partnership is a true collaboration with talented makers who specialize in their craft. The size-inclusive, versatile range includes jumpsuits, dresses, tunics, and pants.



About The Cura Co.

The Cura Co. is a one-stop shop for conscious living. Founded by fashion industry veteran Kiko Eisner-Waters in 2019, Cura helps simplify your values-based lifestyle by making it easier to shop from a curated mix of ethical brands. Deeply rooted at the intersection of beauty, art, equity, and impact, CURA provides an intentional connection between producer and consumer. Female-forward with social justice at the core of its model, The Cura Co. is more than just a brand - it’s a conscious lifestyle. Learn more at thecuraco.com.

The Cura Co. 

2407 E. Union St. #D

Seattle, WA 98122

Hours

Tues. - Sun.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Photo credit: Jessica Garcia 

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. 

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.

London's Photoshoot for Boma Jewelry

 

Last fall my daughter London had the chance to model in Boma Jewelry's holiday campaign. This local brand has quickly become one of her favorites because the earrings are fun and they don't irritate her sensitive ears.  Boma is sustainably-minded and uses recycled silver to make its products. In addition, all Boma Jewelry is non-toxic and nickel-free making it a great pick for sensitive ears. My daughter absolutely adores her collection of Boma Jewelry and really enjoyed working with the brand. 

Here are 5 things to know about Seattle brand Boma Jewelry:

1 - CEO Suzanne Vetillart is a 2nd generation owner and mom of 4. 

2 - The kids collection of earrings includes cats, dogs, unicorns, and rainbows. 

3 - Boma Jewelry customers can offset the carbon from their purchase by using CarbonClick at check-out.

4 - London's favorite pair of earrings from Boma Jewelry are these fox earrings. 

5 -  Boma has developed a process to recycle stones and set them into new pieces of jewelry as a way of keeping unused materials out of landfills. They plan to launch a new zero-waste collection in May, just in time for Mother's Day. 

View Boma Jewelry's collections for kids here:

Boma Jewelry for Girls + Teens

Boma Jewelry Animal Earrings 

Photos by Demri Rayanne Photography

Insider's Guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Seattle's Southside

The holidays are here and local businesses are eager to help you shop, dine, and experience the magic of the season in a safe and responsible way. Visit Seattle recently launched a "Do Something Nearby" campaign to encourage locals to get out and do something to support local businesses. This season, every little bit helps, so whether you're ordering take-out from your favorite neighborhood restaurant or stocking up on gifts from local boutiques, we can each do something to make a difference in our community. Here's your Insider's guide to #DoSomethingNearby in Seattle's Southside. 

Eat

Burien Press - Since 2009, Burien Press has been keeping the South Sound hydrated with coffee, natural wine, and craft beer. They also serve light bites like house-made biscuits with strawberry jam, sticky buns, and scones. Open for takeaway every day until 7 p.m. 

Spice Bridge Global Food Hall - Home to Seattle's Food Business Incubator program, Spice Bridge helps women of color in South King County start and grow a thriving food business. At Spice Bridge, you'll experience foods from around the world. Check out the featured food stall vendors here. 

Classic Eats - Self-described as a "low-key diner" with classic American staples, Classic Eats has everything from meatloaf sliders to pulled pork sandwiches and chicken pot pie. There's something for everyone on the menu and you can even order online. 

Pigfish - Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Pigfish is located in the center of Old Burien and the menu features fish and chips, classic burgers, and hot sandwiches served with hand-cut fries. During the holidays they're offering daily specials for take-out or delivery. 

Burien Fish House - This month Burien Fish House is celebrating 5 years in business. The menu includes cod, salmon, and halibut fish & chips, fish tacos, po-boy sandwiches, and seafood chowder. Digital gift cards are also available and make great stocking stuffers for the seafood lovers in your life!

Anthony's Home Port - If you're craving seafood, you can't forget about Anthony's Home Port in Des Moines. They are a Pacific Northwest staple in my book and the food is consistently delicious and fresh. The menu includes award-winning clam chowder, salmon tacos, fish & chips, lobster fettuccini, and more. Order online for takeaway or eat outside on the heated patio. 

Copperleaf Restaurant -  Located at Cedarbrook Lodge, Copperleaf Restaurant is currently offering an outdoor "Camp Copperleaf" dining experience, daily from 5-9 p.m. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, burgers, and warm soups. They even have camp desserts like Mason Jar Creme Brulee and Dark Chocolate Pot Au Creme. 

Shop

The Shoppe Seahurst - Locally owned by Beka Atwood, The Shoppe Seahurst has a perfectly curated assortment of gifts, home goods, and accessories that are PERFECT for the gift-giving season. The selection includes custom prints, neighborhood blankets, candles, pillows, tote bags, and more. Beka is also offering curated gift boxes and curbside pick-up to make shopping easy and efficient. 

Three Tree Books - Perfectly nestled in Burien on 152nd street, Three Tree Books is open for shopping appointments and online order pick-ups. In addition to books, the shop also carries gifts like mugs, candles, puzzles, journals, teas, and more. They even have Obama's new book, A Promised Land, which I recently started reading and I can tell you, it's really good! 

Paper Delights - Locally owned and operated by stationary connoisseurs Kathy Perkins and Alicia Olsen, Paper Delights stocks a wide range of unique cards, high-quality stationery, and gifts. You can also see what's new in the store on the @PaperDelightsBurien Instagram page and call the store to place an order. If you live in the Burien area, the team will even deliver your purchase straight to your door, for free. 

Sitka Living - Specializing in local art, gifts, and bespoke furniture, Sitka Living is locally owned by Lori Glynn and Rebecca Zielinski. Located in Downtown Burien, the shop has an amazing assortment of giftable things including vintage glassware, handmade jewelry, scented candles, throw pillows, books,  ceramics, and more. 

Macadons - Technically this should be in the "eat" category but I'm making the executive decision to include this in the "shop" category because these cookies are so cute you'll want to gift them to your friends and family. For a limited time, they have a BTS Holiday Set available for pre-order. This holiday collab is in partnership with Magic Shop in Seattle, which is basically Seattle's BTS army.  Macadons offers free local delivery and they also ship nationwide. 

Play

It's a Wonderful Burien - The City of Burien is hosting a series of holiday-inspired events to celebrate the season. The line-up includes a gingerbread man-themed scavenger hunt, imaginative story walks for kids, dance parties for the whole family, and more. There's even an adorable Santa Mailbox in Town Square Park. 

Highline Seatac Botanical Garden - The holiday season can be a stressful time and that's why escaping to the Highline Seatac Botanical Garden is a must if you can carve out the time. Admission is free and the gardens are open every day from dusk until dawn, offering up the perfect excuse for a leisurely afternoon stroll. 

Stay 

Cedarbrook Lodge - Located less than five minutes away from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Cedarbrook Lodge is perfectly situated on eighteen acres of restored wetlands and is a great place to stay if you're visiting Seattle's Southside. The scenery is beautiful, the rooms are comfortable, and there's even a spa on-site offering massages, body treatments, and nail services. If you decide to visit, I highly recommend dinner at Copperleaf Restaurant. 

Today officially marks *two weeks* until Christmas but there's still time to #DoSomethingNearby to support local businesses in the community. Seattle's Southside is home to an array of amazing businesses, from restaurants to retail, there's truly something for everyone. As you get out around town, tag me in your posts @Sydlovesfashion and use the hashtag #DoSomethingNearby. Be sure to include @VisitSeattle too! We're all in this together and together we can make a difference for businesses in our community. Oh, and don't forget your mask!

Header photo credit: Demri Rayanne Photography 

Fashion Calendar: Outdoor Winter Market at London Plane

Seattle's beloved London Plane has announced an Outdoor Winter Market featuring local vendors that will kick-off this weekend and run every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas, rain or shine. The shopping area will be covered, but be sure to bundle up! Guests can meet local markers, shop for holiday gifts, and sit in the London Plane Christmas tree "forest" on the socially-distanced patio as they enjoy eggnog lattes and chocolate peppermint cookies. Wreaths and garland will also be for sale. Featured artists and merchants include Swan Dive Vintage, Izzie Klingels, Clementines, Flora & Henri, London Plane Flower Shop, and Velouria. 

With months of pandemic-related closures threatening many small businesses, Visit Seattle recently launched a "Do Something" campaign that calls on locals in the region to get out and do something nearby in a way that is safe and responsible. While the full impact of the pandemic on King County is not yet known, there is already significant data to prove that the pandemic has taken a devastating toll on the region. London Plane's Outdoor Winter Market is an amazing opportunity to shop from great local brands that could really use your support this holiday season. 

At the London Plane Outdoor Winter market you'll find something for everyone on your holiday list including apparel, accessories, toys, gifts, and flowers. 

Winter Market Details

What: Outdoor Winter Market at London Plane

When: Saturdays and Sundays from now until Christmas 

Where: London Plane 300 Occidental Avenue South Seattle, WA 98104

Why: Because every dollar counts and you love to #ShopLocal and #DoSomethingNearby

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays 

Vendors:

Swan Dive Vintage

Izzie Klingels 

Clementines

Flora & Henri 

Velouria 

London Plane Flower Shop 

* Please note: Swan Dive Vintage, Clementines, Velouria, and The London Plane will be there every weekend, with special guests Flora & Henri and Izzie Klingels showing up along the way. 

5 Takeaways from the Boma Jewelry x Marie Claire IG LIVE

Suzanne Vetillart, CEO of Boma Jewelry, recently went LIVE on Instagram with Marie Claire Accessories Director Julia Gall to talk in-depth about sustainability in the jewelry industry and explore the future of ethical production. The conversation was part of the Sustainable Fashion Forum’s latest series, “Fashion Horror Stories” which looks at the dark side of the fashion industry and examines the impact on both people and the planet. In case you missed it, here are 5 takeaways from the IG LIVE conversation:

#1 - THE PANDEMIC HAS GIVEN BOMA JEWELRY AN UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT

The pandemic has forced many brands to press pause and think critically about how they are conducting business and question whether or not it aligns with their core values. For Boma, the pandemic has offered a chance to step away from the usual pace of business and be more intentional about strategic planning for the future. It has also given Boma a chance to streamline internal processes to ensure a higher level of operational efficiency. “At the end of the day, our goal is to bring joy to customers. We feel confident that we can achieve that by having a strong mission and doing business in a way that leaves the world a better place for generations to come,” says Suzanne.

#2 - SUSTAINABILITY IS THE VALUE SYSTEM FOR WHY BOMA EXISTS

While there are many definitions of sustainability, at its very core, sustainability is the value system for why Boma exists. “My job as a leader is to think about what Boma is going to look like in 20-30 years from now,” says Suzanne. Sustainability should be part of a long-term vision for your brand and be done so in a way that consumers can connect with. “We realized that although we’ve done many things over the years in an effort to have a positive impact on the planet, we weren’t necessarily bringing our customers into the conversation,” says Suzanne. Communication about sustainability should be accessible and what brands are doing to address sustainability in their business should be transparent. "At the end of the day, I want to be able to tell my kids that I did everything I could. We stepped up and wanted to go even further,” she adds.

#3 -BOMA JEWELRY CONTINUES TO BUILD ON VALUE AND EXPAND AS A COMPANY

Boma Jewelry is turning 40 years old next year and current CEO Suzanne Vetillart is a second-generation owner. Her parents founded the company in 1981 and grew the business year over year in a way that was thoughtful, sustainable, and built to last. In 1986, the company opened its own factory in Bangkok, Thailand to streamline production and ensure transparency within the supply chain. As a family, they have always been invested in taking care of their employees by offering living wages, long-term employment opportunities, and community support. In 2016, Suzanne officially launched the Boma Girl Fund, which sets funds aside for things like education scholarships, book drives, and community programming. “There are people behind everything you consume,” says Suzanne, “We want to ensure they are happy and have recognition for their hard work.”

Fact: Every piece of Boma Jewelry touches the hands of 21 skilled workers, artisans, and silversmiths from start to finish. Learn more about Boma’s factory here. 

#4 - THE DEMAND FOR SILVER, GOLD, AND PRECIOUS METALS OUTPACES OUR ABILITY TO SUSTAINABILITY RECYCLE THEM

Part of the reason there’s a lack of truly sustainable jewelry brands is because the recycling process is inefficient and expensive. The system is fragmented which means it’s harder to find recycling solutions that can be properly maintained. Boma Jewelry has worked to recycle its precious metals back into the supply chain for decades and has made it a priority to reduce its environmental impact whenever possible. For this season, they use recycled silver instead of mined silver in their jewelry pieces.

In addition, Boma works with recycling centers that have environmental controls to manage their precious metal recycling process. This involves a controlled facility that monitors air-pollution control and air-handling systems to effectively manage emissions. Last but not least, Boma has developed a recycled stone process that reuses the leftover pieces of genuine stones to be reset and used in new pieces of jewelry.

#5 - GREENWASHING IS ALIVE AND WELL IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY.

“There’s a big difference between brands that are inspired by sustainability and brands that are actually doing something about it,” says Marie Claire Accessories Director Julia Gall. If brands are vague about what they are doing when it comes to sustainability, that’s usually a big red flag. Transparency is important to consumers and companies should be able to showcase the work they’ve done to move toward their sustainability goals. Boma Jewelry publishes its Environmental Management System which provides consumers with data on how Boma is managing its operational environmental impact. In the future, consumers will demand this type of information to be readily available. Brands that are moving in the direction of staying accountable to their sustainability goals will be in a better position to stand out in a crowded marketplace. 

Learn more about Boma Jewelry. 

THE FINAL WORD

“Support these brands so that they can be the standard of what we do. ”

— JULIA GALL, MARIE CLAIRE ACCESSORIES DIRECTOR

Launch Alert: Boma Jewelry x Moonlit Skincare Holiday Gift Set

Two of my favorite brands, Boma Jewelry and Moonlit Skincare, have partnered on a limited-edition holiday gift set! Say hello to the "Self Love Rest & Relaxation" set that is guaranteed to give out good vibes this season. The gift set features a pair of Boma Jewelry's genuine Rose Quartz Waning Moon Earrings, designed to encourage self-love and new beginnings, a full-size bottle of Moonlit Skincare's lavender-scented facial oil, Midnight Shift, to help you wake up rested and radiant, and Moonlit Skincare's new Rose Quartz Facial Roller, perfect for enhancing blood flow and reducing puffiness. 

This gift set is perfect for anyone who needs a little self-care this season. After all, it's been a crazy year and it's not over yet. Here's an overview of the gift set contents:

Boma Jewelry Rose Quartz Waning Moon Earrings - The waning moon represents letting go, clearing away, and releasing old patterns. These delicate earrings are ethically made at Boma's factory in Bangkok and contain genuine rose quartz, a stone known for its restoring self-love and inner healing. All Boma Jewelry is nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and safe for sensitive ears. 

Moonlit Skincare Midnight Shift - This is one of my favorite night-time facial oils to use because it's infused with lavender and helps me fall asleep. I also love adding a few drops to my evening bath if I'm feeling especially indulgent. I also put it on my kiddos to help them fall asleep and they love it too!

Bonus points: Moonlit Skincare products are vegan, cruelty-free, and made from natural ingredients. 

Moonlit Skincare Rose Quartz Facial Roller - This roller is perfect for gentle facial massages when you want to increase circulation and reduce puffiness. It also helps with increasing blood flow and aiding in product absorption. I find that using a facial roller in the mornings helps to contour and wake up my face. Plus, the cold quartz makes me feel like I'm at the spa, even if for just for a moment.  

The Boma Jewelry x Moonlit Skincare Self Love gift set comes packaged in a Boma box that is ready for ribbons or wrapping and is available for pre-sale starting today for a special price of $89. The set goes up to $99 on November 2 and is expected to sell-out due to limited quantities.  

I love it when like-minded brands come together to do something amazing and these brands are no exception. They're both female-led, sustainably-minded, and actively working to make the world a better place through their social responsibility initiatives. This holiday gift set is perfect to give or receive, and honestly, we could ALL use a little R&R in our lives right about now. 

Shop the Boma Jewelry x Moonlit Skincare Gift Set 

A Candid Conversation about the Future of Fashion in Seattle

Fall fashion is here and I recently had the chance to sit down with Sable Talley of Stylishly Made to go over my Summer Retail Report and talk more about the state of fashion in Seattle. It’s no secret that COVID has been a major catalyst for many of the store closures around town and we haven’t hit the bottom yet. In our chat, Sable and I talk about everything from the spring cancellation of our signature Style Summit to how I’m coping with COVID as a business owner. PLUS, we offer up our best tips for brands on how to survive the holiday season.

 Watch the Future of Fashion Retail View Now