Seattle Holiday Shopping Guide: Queen Anne

Queen Anne is one of my favorite neighborhoods of all time. Nevermind that I live and work here on the hill (that in itself makes me only slightly partial), but rather, it's the amazing business owners on Queen Anne that work hard to curate the best mix of products in order to create a unique shopping experiences for their guests. In Seattle we are lucky to have so many independent boutiques to shop from this holiday season. Here's a list of Queen Anne boutiques you won't want to miss on your holiday shopping adventures.

Queen Anne Dispatch

Queen Anne Dispatch has been a staple on the hill since it was founded in 1987 by Jan Paolini. They just recently celebrated 25 years on the hill. The store is filled with an amazing assortment of apparel, shoes, jewelry and gift items from brands like French Connection, Kelsi Dagger, Butter London and Vince Camuto. They even gift wrap and ship all over the world making any gift giving occasion a breeze. The staff is well-versed on product knowledge and always eager to help you find what you need. 

 Queen Anne Dispatch - 2212 Queen Anne Ave N. Seattle, WA 98109 - On Twitter @QADispatch

Three Birds Home 

Three Birds Home made it's debut in July of 2011 and has quickly become one of the best places on the hill to find decorative home accents and gifts including dishes, table linens, candles, soaps, picture frames, wall art and more. Owner Robin Johnson shops markets in New York, San Fran and LA to fill her store with the perfect mix of products that combine innovative designs with inspirational colors.

Three Birds Home - 2107 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109 

Charley + May 

To expect the unexpected is an understatement when it comes to Queen Anne's gift and novelty boutique, Charley + May. Featuring an eclectic mix of fashion, home furnishings, jewelry, accessories and beauty products this store has a little bit of everything for every taste. The mix of product is often quirky, creative and at times thought-provoking from brands like Tokyo Milk, Studio E, Topsy Turvy, Goddis, Reco Jeans and more.  If you're shopping for holiday gifts, housewarming gifts, hostess gifts or stocking stuffers stop by Charley + May and check out their fun assortment of unique products that will make the perfect gift. Find out what's in stock now on Facebook at Facebook.com/CharleyandMay.

Charley + May - 2225 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109  

Meadow

Tucked along sixth avenue west on Queen Anne, Meadow boutique carries a variety of apparel, accessories, shoes and home decor at prices that won't break the bank. Owner Shelley Hall regularly stocks local favorites including Sweet Petula Soaps, Woo + Co. Candles, Leah Pastrama jewelry and more. Shop the adorable selection of holiday gift items including soap dishes, aprons, mixing bowls, jewelry, notebooks, coffee table books and candles. This boutique may be off the beaten path, but it's certainly worth the adventure and there's plenty of free street parking nearby. Check out the Meadow blog to see what's in store now. 

Meadow - 1959 6th Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119

Once Upon a Time 

If you've got little ones on your list this year stop by Once Upon a Time on Queen Anne hill. This boutique won the Red Tricycle award for "Most Awesome Baby Boutique" in 2011 and carries everything you can possibly imagine for little kids including toys, strollers, cloth diapers + accessories, books, clothing, shoes, keepsakes and more. Once Upon a Time even stocks a huge selection of European toys from Moulin Roty, Sevi, Haba, Kathe Kruse, and Holztiger. Celebrate the joy of childhood by stoping by Once Upon a Time.
Once Upon a Time - 1622 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98004 

Stuhlbergs

Located at the top of Queen Anne, Stuhlberg's has been one the city's favorite independently-owned home accessory stores since 2002. Owner and co-founder Megan Stuhlberg works along side her mother Ann to carefully select the best assortment of products to perfectly curate your home from brands like Jonathan Adler, Juliska, Simon Pearce, Votivo and more. At Stuhlbergs you'll find great gifts like soaps and candles for the home, toys, books and stuffed animals for kids and everything in between. This is a must-visit boutique on Queen Anne that is the perfect place to shop for all your holiday gift and decorating needs. 

Stulhbergs - 1801 Queen Anne Avenue North - Seattle, WA 98109

Queen Anne Dispatch to host F&F Shopping Event

Shop local this holiday season! Join Queen Anne Dispatch for their semi-annual Friends & Family shopping event featuring 25% off all purchases, music by DJ Cotton Candy, drinks + light bites, mini manicures by Butter London and free gift with purchase on sales of $75 or more (while supplies last). The discount is valid all day long so if you can't make the event stop by during the day to enjoy F&F prices! 

What: Queen Anne Dispatch Friends & Family event

When: Friday, November 16th, 2012

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

Why: The semi annual F&F event makes shopping local so much fun!

Time: 6-10pm

On Twitter: @QADispatch

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Great Gift Ideas from the Target + Neiman Marcus Collab

Zumiez x Toms partner for Hurricane Sandy Relief

Help Hurricane Sandy victims by purchasing a pair of Tom's Shoes from Zumiez. The company will donate $5 for every pair of shoes sold now though Friday, November 9th to the relief efforts. (Tom's Shoes are available in-store only). For a list of locations click here.

Need a little fall fashion inspiration? Follow Zumiez on Pinterest.

Zumiez x Toms partner for Hurricane Sandy Relief

Help Hurricane Sandy victims by purchasing a pair of Tom's Shoes from Zumiez. The company will donate $5 for every pair of shoes sold now though Friday, November 9th to the relief efforts. (Tom's Shoes are available in-store only). For a list of locations click here.

Need a little fall fashion inspiration? Follow Zumiez on Pinterest. 

Seattle Holiday Gift Ideas: For Glamour Girls

The holidays are just around the corner and now is the time to begin thinking about getting the glamour girl in your life the perfect gift. Here are some Seattle-based gift ideas that we think she'll love. You can thank us later. 

# 1 - A Spa Package at The Four Seasons 

Give her the ultimate luxury experience with the 'Deep Forest Bliss' signature spa treatment from The Four Seasons. Designed to release blockages and sync the energy throughout the body the experience begins with an invigorating foot massage that encourages energetic release. Next, drops of essential oils fall like rain onto the spine and are then massaged into the skin using a gentle feathering technique designed to stimulate the central nervous system for total detoxification and renewal. Valet parking is complimentary with all spa services.

www.fourseasons.com/seattle/spa

# 2- A Great Hair Day

For $35 you can give the glamour girl in your life the gift of great hair with a gift card from Swink Style Bar. She'll be able to choose from their menu of 6 styles and walk out of the salon with bombshell hair. Give her the full beauty bar experience by adding make-up application for an additional $35. 

 www.swinkstylebar.com

# 3 - Amazing Lashes 

Full sets of eyelash extensions are $75 at Noir Lash Lounge in Bellevue. Lash extensions are a major timesaver in the morning and add instant glam to any look. Lash extensions last 2-4 weeks and are majorly addicting because they make eyes look amazing!  Gift cards are available. 

noirlashlounge.com

# 4 - A Fashion Styling Experience

Even glam girls get overwhelmed from time to time in their own closets. Maybe it's a matter of having too many choices or simply not enough of the right pieces to make everything work. Styled Seattle offers a variety of wardrobe make-over packages designed to fit any wardrobe concern and budget. This styling service also makes a great gift for new moms! Gift certificates are available. 

styledseattle.com

# 5 - A Perfect Pedicure
The signature Julep Pedicure is 55 minutes of pure bliss featuring an extended reflexology-based foot massage, sea salt exfoliation and hydrating paraffin wrap. Touch-ups are complimentary within 3 weeks and guests get to take home their own mini bottle of Julep Nail Color. Or, if she prefers to do her own nails you might want to check out the Julep Holiday Gift Box which was recently name one of Oprah's Favorite things!
www.julep.com

# 6 - The Ultimate Hair Experience

Life changing doesn't even begin to describe the haircuts that come out of the Rosaline Hampton Salon in Bellevue. Known for their ability to completely customize a look based on an individual client's hair type, lifestyle and personal preferences, the Rosaline Hampton team has somewhat of a cult following and for very good reason. Give her the gift of great hair with a gift certificate for a new haircut and color.
www.rosalinehampton.com

# 7 - A Chocolate Lover's Dream
The Cocoa Connoisseur Collection Gift Box by Seattle-based Theo Chocolate is exactly what she needs to satisfy her sweet tooth. The set includes a 12 pc. box of 'Taste of Washington' caramels, Rich & Dark Sipping Chocolate, a mini box of Ghost Chile caramels, a mini box of Grey Salted caramels, a Salted Almond milk chocolate bar, an 85% Dark Chocolate bar, Bread & Chocolate Dark Chocolate Bar and a signature Fig Fennel and Almond Dark Chocolate Bar. Yum!
www.theochocolate.com

# 8 - Dream Shoes
If she falls asleep at night dreaming about shoes consider making her Christmas wishes come true with a pair of designer pumps. The Valentino studded t-strap pump (pictured above) is made in Italy and available locally at Nordstrom. With a mere 4-inch heel these shoes are totally practical for walking and perfect for prancing around the house while doing a "Happy Dance".
www.nordstrom.com

# 9 - B is for Botox
Your favorite glamour girl may lead a crazy life but you can help her look cool, calm and collected with the gift of Botox. Affectionately known as "Momma's little helper" just a little bit of Botox can be the difference between a perma-scowl and a peaceful expression. When it comes to any injectable (especially ones that go in your face!) the procedure is only as good as the practitioner and that's why I highly recommend the team at The Stella Center. They believe that less is more and will work with clients to achieve a natural look. Gift cards are available.
www.doctorstella.com

# 10 - The Gift of Great Brows
Known in Seattle as the "eyebrow whisperer" Stacya Silverman is all about great brows. She's a true believer in natural-looking eyebrows and works with clients to create facial balance with amazing brows. Appointments are 10 minutes or less and only cost $27. Gift certificates are available.
www.stacyasilverman.com

The Countdown to Get Hitched, Give Hope Continues

If you're getting married next year or know someone who is, you definitely don't want to miss out on Get Hitched, Give Hope, coming to The Four Seasons in Seattle this Thursday, November 8th. The 5th Annual event will feature everything brides & grooms need to host their perfect wedding while giving back to an amazing cause. Guests will get to mix and mingle with Seattle's hottest wedding vendors, indulge in a full array of appetizers, sip champagne and participate in on-site auctions and event raffles. Every guest who buys a ticket in advance will automatically be entered to win a special prize.

Get Hitched Give Hope proceeds benefit the Dream Foundation, which delivers final dreams to those who have been given a terminal diagnosis and The Young Survival Coalition Seattle, which provides education and support to young women living with breast cancer. This year's theme is Vintage Circus. Guests are encouraged to get dolled up in top hats, bow ties, bustiers, and anything else that strikes your fancy.

"This year is our 5th Anniversary and we are are hoping to raise more than ever in one night - $100,000! We cannot WAIT for November 8th and are incredibly thankful for the generosity of our community that has pulled together to help us put on this amazing event!" says Get Hitched, Give Hope co-founder Barbie Hull. Get a glimpse of what you'll experience at Get Hitched, Give Hope by watching this great video.

WHAT: 5th Annual Get Hitched, Give Hope Event

WHEN: Nov. 8th, 2012 - 6pm

WHERE: Four Seasons Hotel - 99 Union St. - Seattle, WA 98101

 WHO: Seattle’s hottest and most giving weddings pros and YOU, the brides and grooms of the Northwest

WHY: To get gorgeous goods for your wedding while giving back to an amazing cause

HOW: Buy a ticket in advance to be entered in a raffle for a very special prize

Tickets are on sale now - FGI Spring '13 Trend Event

Seattle's chapter of Fashion Group International is hosting a special Spring/Summer 2013 trend recap and video presentation covering high fashion runway trends from around the globe. The event will take place at Nieman Marcus on November 27th and feature commentary from local fashion industry insiders including Rosaline Hampton of Rosaline Hampton Salon, Laura Cassidy of Seattle Metropolitan magazine and Rebecca Luke, CEO of Les Egoistes. Come network with members of the Seattle fashion industry and learn how the runway trends will translate into Seattle's signature style for spring. Follow event updates on Twitter @FGIseattle.

What: FGI Spring/Summer '13 Trend Presentation featuring Rosaline Hampton, Laura Cassidy, Rebecca Luke and moderator Andrea Ward

When: November, 27th 2012 from 5:30 - 7:30pm

Where: Nieman Marcus - Mariposa Restaurant - 11111 NE 8th St. Bellevue, WA 98004 (Located at The Braven)

Why: Because you're a fashion insider who wants the opportunity to view a video recap of the Spring 2013 Ready to Wear Trends and hear fashion industry panelists discuss how those trends will translate for the Seattle market.

Tickets:  FGI members $25 / General Admission $40 via Brown Paper Tickets, event ID #288347.

Cameron Levin launches 'Ruby' Collection

Seattle-based Indie designer Cameron Levin recently launched her Holiday 2013 Ruby Collection featuring a modern approach to the art of Flamenco. 

  

The 10-piece collection is composed using a dramatic color palette of deep reds and luxurious silk fabrics to evoke movement and draw upon the style and energy of southern Spain. Each piece is constructed using washable silks and eco-friendly organic cotton fabric. View the full line at www.lovecameron.com.

Fun fact: The model used in the 2013 Ruby Collection photoshoot (pictured above) may look familiar because she was also featured in the Macklemore Thirftshop Video!

Shop Local at Show Pony

Shop for all your fall favorites at local boutique Show Pony located in Fremont. The store assortment includes labels like Suzabelle, BB Dakota, Fluxus and Toms but you'll also find local favorites including Prairie Underground, Revivial Ink, A to Z, Twig Cosmetics and Foamy Wader Jewelry.

Revival Ink 'Octopus' Organic Sweatshirt 

Prairie Underground Cloak Hoodie in Emerald

Pirouette 'Cherry Blossom Girl' Perfume

Foamy Wader 'Infinity' Necklace

Twig Cosmetics Blush

Show Pony also has an in-house consignment program. Check out details and FAQ's here.

Show Pony

702 N. 35th St. 

Seattle, WA 98103

showponyseattle.com 

Seattle Men's 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 men. 

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! 

Seattle's Best Blow Dry Bars

Chances are you know someone with "really good" hair. Is it the luck of the draw? A really good shampoo? Or maybe a killer haircut? As someone with signature long locks I can tell you it's a clever mix of all of the above and often, my best hair days come after spending time in one of Seattle's best blow dry bars. We've lucky to live in a city where good hair days are just 30 minutes and $35 away. Blowouts are a budget-friendly way to get pampered and achieve the bombshell hair you've been dreaming about. Here's a list of the best blow out bars in my beauty arsenal. Trust me, these girls really know how to work a round brush.

O2 Blow Dry Bar 

If you live on the eastside, check out the O2 Blow Dry Bar located just downstairs from the main Obadiah Salon in Bellevue. This location is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to do a little primping in between retail therapy sessions. The stylists are amazing at working with hair of any length and texture and always keep product usage to a minimum to help make your blow out last as long as possible. 

Style Tip: Pick up a travel sized can of Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to help extend the life of your blowout. 

Cost:$35

Parking: Underground parking is free at The Hyatt with validation.

Website: www.o2blowdrybar.com

Gary Manuel Studio

Located in South Lake Union, Gary Manuel Studio offers a full menu of hair services but it's the blow dry that keeps me coming back for more. The stylists are great about helping you achieve the perfect look whether you want a basic blow out or something for a special occasion. If you Aveda hair products, you'll love this salon. 

Style Tip: To prep for your next trip, stock up on travel sized Aveda products when you visit the studio. 

Cost: Depends on the stylist 

Parking: Metered street parking and underground parking available. 

Website: http://www.garymanuel.com/studio.html

Swink Style Bar 

With a menu that features hair, make-up, lashes and waxing, Swink Style Bar is the perfect place to get pampered. The first location was opened downtown on Stewart street in November of 2009 with a second location making it's debut in the University Village in the spring of 2011. Blowouts are $35 and add-ons are available. 

Style Tip: The downtown salon is closed on Mondays but the U-Village location is open 7 days a week. 

Cost: $35

Parking: Varies by location. 

Website: swinkstylebar.com

Gene Juarez Express Blow Dry 

Added as a service back in 2012 for girls on the go, the Gene Juarez Express Blow Dry is great for those who want great hair in 30 minutes or less. Guests can choose from a dry style "do-over" for clean hair that needs some styling TLC or full shampoo and blow out to create major volume with a round brush.
Cost: $35
Parking: Varies by location.
Website: www.genejuarez.com

1 - Use a dry shampoo on your roots to soak up oil. Be sure to blend. If you get really oily at the scalp it's best to use dry shampoo at night to absorb oil while you sleep.

2-  Wrap hair in a silk scarf before you go to sleep. Silk diminishes the scalp's natural production of oils and can extend a blowout an extra day or two.

3- Extending the life of your blow out at home can sometimes be as simple as cleaning your usual brush to avoid adding extra oil and product into the hair.

4- Pack an umbrella to avoid getting frizzy from the humidity. Or, wear a jacket with a silk-lined hood.

5- Wrap your hair in a towel or use a hair cap before taking a shower to keep hair from getting wet.

Karan Dannenberg to host Yoana Baraschi Trunk Show

There's a lot of good things going on with the Fall 2012 Yoana Baraschi collection. And when we say good, we mean that you'll literally want to buy everything and trust us, the good stuff goes quickly. Featuring bright colors, bold patterns and unexpected details this collection will make you want to have some serious fun with fall fashion.

Belltown boutique Karan Dannenberg Clothier will be hosting a special trunk show this Saturday from 11am-6pm featuring over 40+ pieces from the Fall 2012 Yoana Baraschi collection. Sip a glass of O Wine as you check out the line and pick your new fall favorites. 

Guests who spend over $100 at the trunk show will receive a special gift with purchase and be entered to win a free Fall 2012 Yoana Baraschi dress. 

Details

What: Yoana Baraschi Fall 2012 Trunk Show

When: Saturday, October 27th, 2012 from 11am-6pm

Where: Karan Dannenberg Clothier - 2232 First Ave. - Seattle, WA 98121 

Why: Check out the fall line from Romanian designer Yoana Baraschi. She has a loyal celeb following (Heidi Klum, Olivia Wilde) and is regularly featured in numerous fashion magazines including Lucky, InStyle and Glamour. 

FGI to host Spring '13 Trend Event

Seattle's chapter of Fashion Group International is hosting a special Spring/Summer 2013 trend recap and video presentation covering high fashion runway trends from around the globe. The event will take place at Nieman Marcus in the Bravern on November 27th and feature commentary from local fashion industry insiders including Rosaline Hampton of Rosaline Hampton Salon, Laura Cassidy of Seattle Metropolitan magazine and Rebecca Luke, CEO of Les Egoistes. Come network with members of the Seattle fashion industry and learn how the runway trends will translate into Seattle's signature style for spring. Follow event updates on Twitter @FGIseattle.

What: FGI Spring/Summer '13 Trend Presentation

When: November, 27th 2012 from 5:30 - 7:30pm

Where: Nieman Marcus - Mariposa Restaurant - 11111 NE 8th St. Bellevue, WA 98004 (Located at The Braven)

Why: Because you're a fashion insider who wants the opportunity to view a video recap of the Spring 2013 Ready to Wear Trends and hear fashion industry panelists discuss how those trends will translate for the Seattle market.

Tickets:  FGI members $25 / General Admission $40 via Brown Paper Tickets, event ID #288347.

Designer J'Amy Tarr launches E-commerce site

Indie designer J'Amy Tarr may have recently relocated her operation to San Francisco but Seattleites can still get their hands on her creative designs via her new online store, J'AmyTarr.com. 

The Pacific Northwest inspired Holiday 2012 collection features beautiful silhouettes and impeccable craftsmanship. Favorites from the collection include the bronze dipped leather pants (pictured above) and the sueded silk charemuse blouse (below) perfect for adding rich color to your wardrobe just in time for the holiday season. Don't miss the Rosalind Italian Lambskin and wool coat (pictured top). It's bell shaped skirt is universally flattering and amazingly chic.  

Check out the J'Amy Tarr Holiday '12 Video for some major fall fashion inspiration. You can also find J'Amy (and  all her dreamy design inspiration) on Pinterest.