Colette to close in December

The news it true, although it's still hard to believe. Colette in Paris will close its doors at the end of the year and fashion world is heartbroken. For those that are unfamiliar with Colette, let me fill you in. In a nutshell, Colette is the store that all other stores look to for inspiration, direction, and insight on how to support emerging brands, create a unique customer experience, and create a store that simply has that "je ne sais quoi", the thing that you can't describe because there simply aren't words for it. After 20 years in business setting the pace for other retailers to follow suit, Colette will close for good, citing the upcoming retirement plans for founder Colette Roussaux.

The closing of the store signals tough times ahead for traditional brick-and-mortar retailers who are already weary of how the industry continues to change and evolve. The New York Times reports that Colette was fully owned by Ms. Roussaux and her daughter Sarah Andelman. Annual sales exceeded $32 million last year, and 25% of that came from e-commerce. The end of an era is near.

Photo credit: Menswear Style UK

Fashion Calendar: Queen Anne Dispatch F&F Sale

One of my favorite Queen Anne boutiques is hosting it's annual Friends & Family sale this Friday featuring 20% off everything in the store. (As if I needed a reason to shop.) This friendly neighborhood boutique has a great mix of all the brands I love including French Connection, Voluspa, Coobie, Butter London, Free People, Mavi, Compendium and more. They've got apparel, accessories, beauty products, lingerie, novelty items and even stuff for kids. Plus, they can gift wrap and ship anywhere in the world! Come meet owners (and sisters) Tara and Sabrina, shop the great assortment of merchandise and save like it's going out of style. The discount is good all day long but if you're free in the evening you'll enjoy music by DJ Mullet, a trunk show by Veronica & Harold Jewelry and much, much more. Stop by, shop local and support this great boutique!

What: Queen Anne Dispatch Friends & Family Sale

When: Friday, Nov. 7th from 6-10pm

Where: 2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Why: Because local boutiques like Queen Anne Dispatch make the world go round

Fashion Calendar: Jamie Joseph Trunk Show at Essenza

Join Fremont's Essenza boutique for a special trunk show featuring local artist Jamie Joseph on Saturday, April 26th from 11am-7pm. The event will include decadent chocolate cupcakes + champagne and feature an array of gorgeous styles from the Jamie Joseph line which include diamonds, precious stones and gold. Stop by to shop local for all your Mothers Day Gifts, peruse the line and meet the designer in person.

Essenza

615 N. 35th St. 

Seattle, WA 98103

Fremont's Les Amis boutique is turning 18

Les Amis in Fremont is turning 18! Come celebrate with cupcakes and champagne this Friday from 3-7pm. Plus, enjoy a 15% discount on your entire purchase* all weekend long as a thank you to the community for it's continued love and support. Take a peek at what's in stock now by visiting the Les Amis blog.

Les Amis

3420 Evanston Ave. N. 

Seattle, WA 98103

*Discount excludes sale items and jewelry. 

Holiday Shopping Wishlist: Karan Dannenberg Clothier

Capture the magic of the holiday season by heading to Belltown and shopping locally from Karan Dannenberg Clothier. Since 1997, Karan Dannenberg has been wardrobing clients with gorgeous apparel and accessories from brands like Nicole Miller, Rock Star Jewelry, Cookie Johnson, Creenstone, Mackage, Mandy Moon Vintage, Alberto Makali, Sympli, SW3 and more. Here are a few of our favorite holiday gifts that you'll find in store now. Karan Dannenberg and her team will even help with gift wrapping and shipping!

Shopping tip: Make a day of it! Shop for your holiday gifts at the boutique and then head next door to Local 360 for brunch. (Don't miss the Ginger Grapefruit mimosa!)

Gift Idea #1- A beautiful Creenstone coat
This season in store you'll find sophisticated outerwear by Creenstone. Based out of Amsterdam, Creenstone specializes in crafting beautiful coats that are feminine, flattering and functional. Multiple sizes, styles and colors are in stock now. These warm coats make a great gift that will last for years to come.

Gift Idea #2- Rock Star Jewelry 
Magnolia-based Rock Star Jewelry is the perfect gift for the girl who has everything. Designer Martha Driver uses gorgeous gemstones and crafts each piece by hand. The line includes beautiful statement necklaces, colorful earrings, and bracelets that can take outfits from day to evening in no time.

Gift Idea #3- A cozy caplet
Stay warm this season and wrap yourself in a colorful double knit cape by Lombaggi. Side buttons give the illusion of sleeves on this easy to wear piece that is perfect for layering on a cold day.

Gift Idea #4- The Perfect Holiday Dress
New York-based designer Yoana Baraschi makes it easy to hit the holiday party circuit in style this year with her sparkly quarter-sleeve sequin dress.

Gift Idea #5- A holiday-inspired eyeglass case
Whiting and Davis want to make storing your glasses safe and stylish. We love these adorable cases that won't get lost in your purse and make excellent stocking stuffers.

Can't decide? Gift certificates are also available!

Karan Dannenberg Clothier

2232 First Ave. 

Seattle, WA 98121

(206) 441-3442

Find information about new arrivals, upcoming events and more on Facebook!

The Stock List: Horseshoe

Shop locally for all your summer must-have items in Ballard at Horseshoe! From dresses to easy tops, shoes and accessories check out what's in stock now!

Emilia Tank Dress by Susana Monaco

Tibet Dress by BB Dakota

Hibiscus Shorts by THML

Roller Rink shorts by Splendid

Mar y Sol Havana Pom Pom Tote

Floral Canvas TOMS Shoes

Gidigio Ercolano Sandals

Don't miss the Horseshoe Summer '13 Lookbook!

Horseshoe

5344 Ballard Ave. N.W. 

Seattle, WA 98107

The Stock List: La Ree

Bellevue's La Ree boutique located just off main street may be off the beaten path but it's a worthwhile destination to shop for designer labels and must-have items for the season. Here's a look at what you'll find in stock now.

Veronica Beard Plaid Silk Tee (paired with a denim jacket)

Yigal Azrouel Crepe Georgette Top (paired with a crop jacket)

3.1 Phillip Lim Shirt Dress

VPL Maxi Dress

3.1 Phillip Lim White 'Pashli' Satchel Bag 

Iosselliani Fussed Stone Stacked Rings

Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Boot

La Ree

11 103rd Ave. N.E. 

Bellevue, WA 98004

www.lareeboutique.com

The Stock List: Sway & Cake

Heading downtown for a little retail therapy? Don't miss Seattle boutique Sway & Cake located on sixth avenue  next door to Nordstrom. Here's a peek at what's in stock now! Happy shopping!

Paros Blue and White Tunic by Sam & Lavi, $116

Kendall cotton lace shorts by Tart, $106

Ritual Maxi by Bless'ed are the Meek, on sale now for $90

Patricia Textured Jacket by Greylin, on sale now for $110

Harrison Silk Shorts by Rory Beca, on sale for $116

Roll on perfume by Miss Marisa, $72

Sway & Cake fans can also find fashion inspiration on Pinterest.com/Swayandcake. 

Sway & Cake

1631 Sixth Ave. 

Seattle, WA 98101

On Twitter @Swayandcake

FGI Presents Karan Dannenberg Clothier - Success At Retail Thru Two Economic Downturns

On Wednesday, June 26th, Fashion Group International will host a special event at Karan Dannenberg Clothier in Belltown. The evening will include a candid discussion on what it takes to be successful in retail, how to retain loyal clientele, and why genuine customer service is now more important than ever. The conversation will also include tips on how to boost your business and methods on how to offer guests an incredible shopping experience that keeps them coming back for more! The evening will be moderated by Marj Turner and will include an opportunity for networking. Sponsors include Girly Girl Wines, Bellini and Local 360. 

What: FGI Presents Karan Dannenberg Clothier - Success At Retail Thru Two Economic Downturns

When: Wednesday, June 26, 2013 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Where: Karan Dannenberg Clothier 2232 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Cost: $25.00 FGI Members/$40.00 General via Brown Paper Tickets

Urban Zen Caravan trunk show this weekend at Baby & Co

It's Herve Leger Week at David Lawrence

If you're in need of a great party dress don't miss "Herve Leger Week" going on now at David Lawrence. Featuring 20% off the entire selection of Herve Lerger plus a special gift with purchase while supplies last this sale is the perfect opportunity to splurge on your favorite brand. The promotion ends on Sunday, April 21st. 

David Lawrence is located in The Bravern at 700 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue, WA 98004. Follow the fashion conversation on Twitter @Davidlawrenceco. 

Spring Style events at Butch Blum

Add these stylish events to your spring fashion calendar!

Butch Blum will be hosting a special trunk show for women on Wednesday, April 17th from noon-6pm featuring Olvi's Spring/Summer '13 collection of beautiful French lace dresses, skirts, tops and jackets that are perfect for this season's special occasions. The line is based out of the Netherlands and focuses on fresh, innovative designs using luxurious fabrics. The Olvi line is exclusive to Butch Blum in the Northwest and is loved by celebrities all over the world. 

Pictured in an Olvi Dress: Former Miss Belgium, Ellen Petri. Photo courtesy of Olvi.

Butch Blum has the guys covered when it comes to spring style too! Marc Murfitt of Agave Denim will be in-store on Friday, April 19th for a special Agave denim trunk show featuring Happy Hour craft beers and a showcase of the 2013 collection. The entire line is designed in Portland, Oregon and made in the U.S.A. Guys can get advice on how to find their perfect pair of Agave jeans while enjoying a cold bevy from 4:30-6pm on Friday, which definitely makes this event the perfect way to start the weekend! The fun continues on Saturday, April 20th from 10am-6pm. 

Agave Denim Ad Campaign. Photo courtesy of Agave Denim. 

Butch Blum

1408 Fifth Avenue

Seattle, WA 98101

206.622.5760

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

Seattle Mens Fashion Directory - 2013

Navigating the Seattle fashion scene is easy when you know where to shop. Here's the inside scoop on Seattle's best places to shop for menswear. 

Blackbird

Blackbird’s claim to fame is their well-edited selection of menswear from brands like Robert Geller,Odyn Vovk, Vim Beget, Wings + Horns, A.P.C, The Seventh Seal and more. Blackbird was voted by GQ magazine as one of the top menswear boutiques in the country. 

Location: 5410 22nd Ave. NW. Seattle, WA 98107

Website: www.blackbirdballard.com

Twitter: @HelloBlackbird
Shopping tip: Check out the Blackbird Apothecary (a few doors down from the shop) for a unique assortment of unisex fragrances, including some local lines! 

Ian

Ian carries stylish clothing for men (and women!) from brands like Civilianaire, Relwen, Nau, Life/After/Denim, B.D. Baggies and Imogene + Willie. Owner-Buyers, Scott McElmury and Cerise Lacock seek out lines that epitomize confident, modern style yet remain understated. 

Location: 1919 Second Ave. Seattle, WA 98101 

Website: www.ianshop.com 

Twitter: @ianshop
Shopping tip: From now until April 1st get free shipping when you shop online at IanShop.com by using coupon code FREEIAN. 

Zumiez

Founded in 1978 right here in Seattle the first Zumiez store was actually at Northgate mall. The company has since grown to expand all over the country and now has more than 400 stores. Brands carried include Obey, Diamond Supply Co., RVCA, Glamour Kills, Toms, Volcom, DGK and more. Guys can shop for casual clothes, outerwear, full snowboard gear including hardgoods and of course, shoes. 

Location: Varies. See website. 

Website: www.zumiez.com

Twitter: @Zumiez
Shopping tip: Check out the online assortment at Zumiez.com for the best selection and possibly free shipping.

Kuhlman

Located in Belltown on first avenue, Kuhlman's of mens (and women's) apparel and accessories from brands like H.W. Carter & Sons, Reyn Spooner, Haryln Clothing, Mia Melon, Barbour, Pendleton and more. Out-of-towners can stay at the Ace Hotel, located just next door to the shop.

Location: 2419 First Ave.Seattle, WA 98121

Website: www.kuhlmanseattle.com

Twitter: N/A
Shopping tip: Check the website for a current selection of offerings. See something you like? Phone in an order to the store. 

David Lawrence

For over two decades David Lawrence has been pushing the limits of fashion here in the Northwest. Owners David & Diana Blackham carry a carefully edited mix of labels for men and women including Hugo Boss, D Squared, Built for Man, Diesel Black Gold, and Versace. David Lawrence is located in Bellevue at The Bravern. Location: 700 110th Ave. N.E.Bellevue, WA 98004

Website: www.david-lawrence.com

On Twitter: @davidlawrenceco
Shopping tip: Sign up for the mailing list to be the first to hear about trunk shows and special events. 

Evo

Located in Fremont, Evo carries apparel and accessories for men and women including a wide variety of snow related hardgoods. Brands include The North Face, Obey, Brixton, Patagonia, Quiksilver, Kr3w and more. In the fall of 2011 the store celebrated it's 10th anniversary! They recently expanded their selection of women's merchandise and customers can easily shop online at evo.com. 
Location: 3500 Stone Way N. Seattle, WA 98103
Website: www.evo.com
Twitter:  @EvoGear
Shopping tip: Check the Evo blog for information about current promotions and in-store events. 

TotokaeloMAN

Making it's debut in March of 2013, TotokaeloMAN is Capitol Hill's newest menswear boutique. Located beneath the women's Totokaelo store, TotokaeloMAN features apparel and accessories from Maison Martin Margiela, Yohji Yamamoto, Rick Owens, Undercover, Jil Sander, Acne, APC, Robert Geller, Saturdays, Hope, Wood Wood and more.
Location: 1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122
Website: Visit the original website at Totokaelo.com. A dedicated site for TotokaeloMAN is coming soon!
Twitter: @Totokaelo
Shopping tip: Bring your girlfriend so she can shop upstairs!