Glamour & Giving event to benefit St. Jude

Fashion and philanthropy will come together for a great cause on Thursday, June 4th at the St. Jude Glamour & Giving event in Bellevue. Hosted by Desiree Hartsock of ABC's The Bachelorette (Season 9) and husband Chris Siegfried, the evening will bring out the biggest names in fashion as they come together at Neiman Marcus to support a worthy cause. The event will include a runway show, live and silent auction, private shopping for guests, hors d'oeuvres by John Howie Steakhouse and an opportunity to meet local St. Jude patients and families. One of the biggest silent auction items available at the event is a trip to New York Fashion Week in September, complete with access to exclusive fashion week parties and more. Local brands and businesses including Paychi Guh, JJ Caprices and Glittersweet have also donated items to the silent auction in an effort to help raise funds for St. Jude. Tickets are on sale now and start at $100 for general admission. All event proceeds benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

What: St. Jude Glamour & Giving Seattle

When: Thursday, June 4th, 2015

Where: Neiman Marcus Bellevue (The Shops at the Bravern) 11111 NE 8th St. Bellevue, WA

Time: 5:30-8:30pm

Tickets: $100 for General Admission | $150 for VIP available via St. Jude

Seattle Shopping Guide: Queen Anne

The Queen Anne neighborhood shopping guide is here!

Queen Anne is one of my favorite neighborhoods of all time. Never mind that I live and work here on the hill, that in itself makes me only slightly partial, but it's the amazing business owners that work hard to curate the best mix of products in order to create a unique shopping experience on the hill that I absolutely love. Seattleites are lucky to have so many independent boutiques to shop from and we know how important it is to shop local in order to help these businesses thrive. Whether you're a native, or just visiting the Emerald City on a quick trip, we hope you enjoy this round-up of Queen Anne boutiques to check out on your next shopping adventure.

Queen Anne Dispatch

2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

www.queenannedispatch.com

Queen Anne Dispatch has been a staple on the hill since it was founded in 1987 by Jan Paolini. The shop is now run by Jan's daughters, Tara and Sabrina and continues to stock a great mix of merchandise including apparel, accessories, jewelry, gifts, toys and more from brands like French Connection, BB Dakota, Jack, Mavi, Hanky Panky, Olivine Atelier and Vince Camuto. They even gift wrap, pack and ship, 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. 

Three Birds Home 

2107 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

www.threebirdshome.com

Three Birds Home 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. You'll find this little shop nestled next to Umbrella Tree and Key Bank on Queen Anne Avenue. Be on the look out for sidewalk sales in the summer time. 

Meadow

1959 6th Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98118

www.meadowseattle.com

Tucked along sixth avenue west on Queen Anne, Meadow boutique carries apparel, accessories, shoes and home decor at prices that won't break the bank. (We're talking dresses under $30 and kitchen items like blank recipe cards as low as $6.) Owner Shelley Hall regularly stocks local favorites including Sweet Petula Soaps, Woo + Co. Candles, Leah Pastrama jewelry and more. This boutique may be off the beaten path, but it's certainly worth the adventure and there's plenty of free street parking nearby. 

Once Upon a Time 

1622 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98004

www.onceuponatimetoys.net

If you're expecting a new arrival this summer, or know someone who is, don't miss Once Upon a Time on Queen Anne hill. This boutique has been a recipient of the Red Tricycle "Most Awesome Baby Boutique" award and carries everything you can possibly imagine for babies and 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. 

Stuhlbergs

1801 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

www.stuhlbergs.com

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! 

Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa
1629 Queen Anne Ave. N. #103 Seattle, WA 98109
www.bellafioremedspa.com
Although this isn't technically a boutique you can certainly shop here for beauty products when you visit Queen Anne. Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa stocks several local lines including Gallipot Skin Care which is handcrafted using all-natural, anti-aging ingredients.

Queen Anne Books
1811 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.qabookco.com
There's something magical about wandering into a neighborhood book store and escaping into a world of literary insight and adventure. Queen Anne Books has great books for kids, travelers, culinary enthusiasts and even has a small fashion section. You'll frequently find local authors doing book signings in the store so be sure to check the website for a current line-up of events.

Peridot
2135 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109
www.peridotboutique.wordpress.com
Peridot is now located on Upper Queen Anne just next door to Starbucks. This adorable boutique stocks budget-friendly women's fashion from a variety of brands. In the store you'll also find jewelry, lingerie, loungewear and gifts including scented candles from Voluspa. 

Fashion Calendar: Queen Anne Dispatch F&F sale

The Queen Anne Dispatch Friends & Family sale is back

I love this neighborhood boutique on Queen Anne and I think you will too! If you haven't had the chance to check out this little gem, now is the time, because during the Friends & Family event you'll save 20% on all the brands you love including Cosabella, Mavi, Butter London, Kensie, Kersch, Volupsa, Compendium, Olivine Atelier, Subtle Luxury and more! Come celebrate this amazing Seattle boutique, meet owners (and sisters) Tara and Sabrina, snack on light bites, enjoy sweet sips and kick the weekend off right!

Dr. Christine Schaffner of Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa will be on-site doing complimentary B12 shots from 6-7pm to give guests a quick boost of energy as they kick off the weekend. Limited qty. available. First come, first serve. Get there early!

What: Queen Anne Dispatch Friends & Family event

When: Friday, May 15th, 2015

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

Time: The party is from 6-10pm but the discount is valid all day long, so get ready to shop!

Why: Because shopping local is the best way to protect the neighborhood shops you love. Oh, and also because DJ Mullet will be there. We know you love a good mullet.

Rock the Detox

Do crave sugar? Do you have a glass of wine with dinner every night? Is it time for a detox?

Join skin care expert Kari Gran, Dr. Christine Schaffner of Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa, nutrition expert Heather Christo and Pure Barre's Sami Sweeney as they share their insight on how to create a healthy lifestyle through beauty and wellness. The Rock the Detox event on April 30th will also include a panel discussion, small bites + clean cocktails, free B-12 shots from Bella Fiore, and a fitness demo by Pure Barre. This is a complimentary event but space is limited so RSVP no later than April 24th if you plan to attend. If you've been thinking about doing a "spring clean" on your lifestyle this is the event for you. Guests will have fun while learning how to achieve a healthy lifestyle and walk away with tools and strategies on how to make it happen. See you there!

What: Rock the Detox

When: Thursday, April 30th from 5:45-9pm

Where: Distillery Lofts (South Lake Union) 1735 Westlake Ave. N. Seattle, WA

RSVP: springclean@duopr.com

BEVEE launches campaign featuring #WomenthatDo

I'm excited to share that Seattle-based BEVEE bags recently highlighted me as part of their #WomenthatDo campaign that features inspiring women who are working, thriving and giving back to their communities. Sasha Muir, founder of BEVEE, designed the collection with working women in mind, knowing that a functional, convertible clutch was the perfect compliment to a fast-paced lifestyle. The BEVEE bags moves with women throughout their day allowing them to convert the bag from a clutch to a crossbody in a click. Other women who have been profiled include Katrina Koo of The Demure Muse and Joanna Lord of Porch.com. I'm thrilled to be part of a stylish and engaging conversation that encourages #WomenthatDo to keep moving, shaking and making things happen. In the post you'll find my favorite tips for being productive, a few tweetables to share, the advice I would have given to my younger self and of course, my favorite BEVEE bag from the collection. >> Read the full story on BEVEE.com 

Gray magazine presents "The Sorrento Sessions"

Gray magazine recently kicked off The Sorrento Sessions, a five-part series of panel discussions featuring talented designers and creative thinkers in the Northwest. The first sold-out session took place on April 9th and featured architect George Suyama, Bellevue Arts Museum curator Jennifer Navva Milliken, and furniture designer Brent Comber among others. In partnership with the Interior Design Show West, The Sorrento Sessions encourage creative conversations for trade and design enthusiasts. The next event, "Remix Culture & Cross-Disciplinary Design" is taking place on May 5th and will include a panel discussion highlighting bright design stars in the region who will share their experience crossing into unexpected design territories and shed light on why this practice will soon become the new standard.

What: The Sorrento Sessions "Remix Culture & Cross-Disciplinary Design"

When: Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 from 6-8pm

Where: Sorrento Hotel 900 Madison St. Seattle, WA 98104

Tickets: $10 via EventBrite

Calling all #WomenthatDo

I'm excited to share that Seattle-based BEVEE bags recently highlighted me as part of their #WomenthatDo campaign that features inspiring women who are working, thriving and giving back to their communities. Sasha Muir, founder of BEVEE, designed the collection with working women in mind, knowing that a functional, convertible clutch was the perfect compliment to a fast-paced lifestyle. The BEVEE bags moves with women throughout their day allowing them to convert the bag from a clutch to a crossbody in a click. Other women who have been profiled include Katrina Koo of The Demure Muse and Joanna Lord of Porch.com. I'm thrilled to be part of a stylish and engaging conversation that encourages #WomenthatDo to keep moving, shaking and making things happen. In the post you'll find my favorite tips for being productive, a few tweetables to share, the advice I would have given to my younger self and of course, my favorite BEVEE bag from the collection. >> Read the full story on BEVEE.com 

JJ Caprices to host Global Style Trunk Show at Hotel Max

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 10th and now is the time to start thinking about the perfect gift. Fortunately for you, Jennifer Jedda of JJCaprices.com has curated a gorgeous assortment of global jewelry that is just right for the occasion. Her latest buying trip took her to Paris, Rome, Scotland, Sicily and Turkey, and she's hand-selected incredible pieces just for this event. Come meet Jen is person, check out her new arrivals, see pics from her travels and get a jump start on your Mother's Day shopping. 

Event Details 

What: JJ Caprices Global Style Trunk Show

When: Sat. April 25 from 4-6 p.m. 

Where: Hotel Max 620 Stewart St. Seattle, WA 98101

Why: Because you have wanderlust and shopping the curated selection of jewelry from around the globe is the only thing that will tide you over until your next trip. 

Wear Wednesdays to feature Seattle designer Brian Cuddy

Join the W Seattle for the monthly Wear Wednesdays style series this Wed. 4/8 featuring Seattle designer Brian Cuddy. Known for his colorful graphic prints, Brian is a former Design Director from Nordstrom and his namesake line was showcased at Bellevue's Independent Designer Runway Show last fall. Guests will enjoy happy hour pricing throughout the event from TRACE Bar and 20% of all proceeds from food and beverage will be donated to the Human Rights Campaign in support of marriage equality. Bring a friend and come enjoy this stylish night out on the town.

Event Details

What: Wear Wednesdays at the W featuring Brian Cuddy

When: Wednesday, 4/8 from 5-7pm

Where: W Seattle 1112 Fourth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Why: Because you love fashion and revel at the chance to mix and mingle with fashion colleagues
and friends.

Cost: This is a complimentary event.

5 spring trends and where to buy them locally

Spring is officially here and now is the time to stock up on seasonal must-haves from Seattle's best designers and boutiques. Here's a look at our top 5 favorites for the season. 

Pretty Pastels 

Sorbet-inspired colors are "in" for spring '15 as seen on the runway at shows like Alice + Olivia and Marc by Marc Jacobs. Soft pinks, purples and pistachino colors are an easy way to incorporate delicate pastels into your wardrobe. If the thought of wearing full pastels is intimidating, opt for a pastel-colored bag instead, like the Continental Clutch from Seattle-based BEVEE, shown above.

Perfectly Perforated

This season I'm smitted by anything and everything perforated. This trend started out in the athleisure space and has quickly taken over just about every fashion category you can imagine including bags, skirts, tops, dresses and even outerwear. Keep it simple with a pair of easy flats by Seattle-based Dolce Vita (pictured above) available locally at Moorea Seal. Pair these with jeans for a laid-back spring look.

The New Bohemian

Versatile and easy to wear, the new crop of boho-inspired dresses for spring are an absolute must for your seasonal shopping list. Available in crisp cottons, soft silks and even lace, the boho dress is the perfect way to step out in style this spring. Shown above, the Avril dress from Tryb, available locally at ZebraClub.com. 

Ornate Accessories

If there's one thing you splurge on this season it should be your accessories, especially if you decide to go back to the basics with your wardrobe. Ornate, embellished accessories are IN for spring '15 making it a great time to have fun with global-inspired statement jewelry, like the Turkish necklace shown above, available locally at JJCaprices.com.

Effortless Outerwear 

Easy pieces that can instantly pull together an entire look are essential for spring. I love this organic cotton "Tarapaulin" jacket from Seattle-based Prairie Underground. With an asymmetrical zip detail this jacket is light-weight and pairs perfectly with dresses or pants. 

Stylish Getaway Guide: NYC

New York is a city filled with wonder and possibility which is why it's such an incredible place to visit and find inspiration. After just returning from a power-packed, four-day, girls getaway to the big city I'm still feeling the buzz. Here are my top picks on the best places in NYC to stay, spa, sip and shop.

Stay 

The Belvedere has quickly become one of my favorite places to stay in the city. Located in midtown near the Theater District, The Belvedere is clean, centrally located and perhaps most importantly, bed-bug free. The rooms are a good size by NYC standards and the bathrooms feature luxurious marble flooring. This hotel is within walking distance of Times Square and close to numerous cafes, restaurants, shops and markets. www.belvederehotelnyc.com

Spa

The highlight of the trip was definitely our visit to Bliss 57 Spa. Let's just say there's a reason this spa has a cult following. I splurged on the signature "FatGirlSlim" toning treatment which consists of dry brushing followed by a trouble-spot-targeting seaweed mask, a heated wrap, a waist-targeting rubdown with "The Love Handler" followed by a generous application of the infamous Bliss "Fat Girl Slim" firming cream. The 75-minute treatment was amazing and I definitely noticed a difference in my skin tone and texture after the service. I can't wait for my next spa day! www.blissworld.com

Eat

For those that crave local and organic food, don't miss Blue Dog Kitchen. It's now on our "must-list" next time we visit the city and just talking about it makes us hungry all over again. Located in midtown, this cafe + juice bar has a fun, cozy atmosphere and serves fresh food that is beautifully plated. Start off with a fresh-pressed juice (made on their Norwalk Juice press) before your meal. I had the "Knight in Armor" juice which consists of apple, lemon, double ginger and cayenne. It had a kick and I loved every sip! For brunch, try the breakfast sandwich on a croissant with egg whites, turkey bacon, and avocado. www.bluedognyc.com

Prep

As I write this I'm now on day #5 of my Dry Bar blow-out and I promise it looks just as good as it did on day one. Whenever I'm in NYC I take full advantage of Dry Bar because it's quick, easy and convenient. I have really long, thick hair and not having to worry about washing or styling my while I travel is well worth the $40 price tag. Dry Bar offers several styling options to choose from and has experience with all hair types. Style tip: To make your blow out last as long as possible try the Dry Bar Detox Dry Shampoo. www.thedrybar.com

Shop

We left midtown and spent an entire afternoon shopping in Soho and it was well worth the trek. In Soho you'll find Zara, Uniqlo, Topshop, Mango, Bloomingdale's and many other places to experience a little retail therapy. Soho is crowded and the fitting room lines are long, so plan accordingly. If you need a pick-me-up while shopping, stop by the IT'SUGAR store for a sweet treat.

If you're heading uptown, shopping on Fifth avenue is another safe bet. You'll find Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Tiffany & Co., Moncler, and more. Keep going until you hit Central Park so that you can take a breather with a quick cappuccino in the park.

The Pack List

# 1 - Easy walking shoes with a square heel for maximum comfort while strolling the city.

#2 - Multi-tasking Makeup: Benefit's Lollitint works as a lip and cheek stain, saving valuable space in your cosmetics bag

#3 - A convertible clutch that easily transforms from day to night like this one from Seattle brand Bevée.

# 4 - An easy leather jacket that goes with everything and pulls together an entire look. Pictured above: Leather Moto Jacket from Topshop.

Spring '15 Inspiration & Style Challenge

My love affair with fashion started a long time ago and this season along with being inspired by the gorgeous colors and playful trends seen on the runway, I'm inspired by the feelings they evoke. This year I'd like to spark a more meaningful style conversation and talk about the designers and brands that are pushing innovative new ideas to the forefront of fashion. This approach to style allows us to integrate the apparel and accessories we love and examine the lifestyles we lead and how our favorite pieces play into them. What's significant about style is not the price of a dress, the size, or even the designer for that matter. What's really noteworthy when we discuss style is how it makes us feel and whether or not it inspires us to live life fully and be present in the moments that bring us joy.

This season Seattle-based Porch.com asked style bloggers to participate in a "Spring Style Challenge" that involved styling an outfit inspired by a room created by one of their design professionals. I loved the versatility and rich colors in the photo (shown above) designed by New York interior designers Marks & Frantz. Their ability to mix pieces from multiple time periods and play with various shapes and textures is exactly my shared sentiment for spring. I love the colorful chandelier in the center photo and adore the way it captivates the room. Gold is one of my favorite accent colors (as seen in the shoes I'm wearing at top) and in the far left and far right photos you can see the careful use of gold-plated accents that bring an element of sophistication to each room. 

Corey Dress from Pipe & Row in Fremont paired with Spring '15 color inspiration from Marks & Frantz Interior Design, New York 

Seattle is fortunate to be home to many creative designers and amazing boutiques, each brimming with fresh picks for spring. I headed to Fremont's Pipe & Row boutique to peruse the selection and pick up the Corey dress (shown above). Featuring a nod to the 70's-inspired wrap dress by Diane von Furstenberg, this dress has everything I love (colors, pockets, prints) all wrapped (literally) into one beautiful piece. The long sleeves make this a great dress for spring's transitional weather and the mix of colors makes it easy to pair with a wide variety of accessories. 

This season my style challenge to you is to have more fun with fashion. Play with color, texture and trends by adding in signature style elements that feel right to you. Stroll through neighborhood boutiques, pick up a fresh bouquet of flowers and savor the arrival of this beautiful season and the possibilities that it brings. 

Here are a few of my favorite style picks for Spring '15

Best shoe to run around the city: Vince Camuto leather caged sandals, $129.95

Accessory you can wear with anything: J.Crew Hexagon Bangle, $29.50

Most versatile bag: BEVEE Convertible clutch with detachable chain, $190

Style with a story: Druzy Quartz ring from Turkey via JJ Caprices.com, $149

Effortless dress for everyday wear: Corey Wrap Dress from Pipe & Row in Fremont, $189

Color Crush: Marc Jacobs lipstick in Bold Rose, $30

Canopy Blue hosts personal styling event

Need help shopping for spring? Join personal stylist Megan Kophs of Style Remix and Canopy Blue as they dive into spring fashion trends to benefit the Ben Towne Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. The event is taking place on Wednesday, March 11th from 12-3pm for mid-day shoppers and again from 5-8pm for those that prefer to shop after work. Canopy Blue is located in Madison Valley at 3121 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112. This is a free event, open to the public.

Wear Wednesday announces Spring '15 Style Edit

Join Seattle fashion insiders for a spring style conversation on Wednesday, March 18th from 6-8pm. As part of the Wear Wednesday series, the Spring Style Edit will feature seasonal picks from the editors of Seattle Met, Seattle, Gray and Seattle Refined. Seattle style bloggers will also join the fashion conversation by sharing their spring style inspiration via an outfit of the day photo showcasing their favorite trend for the season. 

What:

Wear Wednesday at the W: Spring Style Edit featuring seasonal picks from Ali Brownrigg of Seattle magazine, Amanda Zurita of Seattle Met, Rachel Gallaher of Gray magazine, and Alyson Andrews of Seattle Refined. 

When:

Wednesday, March 18, 2015 from 5-7pm

Where:

W Seattle 1112 Fourth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Why:

Because talking about fashion is almost as much fun as shopping for it. Join us for this fun, informal, creative conversation about spring style in Seattle!

Follow the fashion conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #WearWednesday. 

Wear Wednesday announces Spring Style Edit

Join Seattle fashion insiders for a spring style conversation on Wednesday, March 18th from 5-7pm. As part of the Wear Wednesday series, the Spring Style Edit will feature seasonal picks from the editors of Seattle Met, Seattle, Gray and Seattle Refined. Seattle style bloggers will also join the fashion conversation by sharing their spring style inspiration via an outfit of the day photo showcasing their favorite trend for the season. 

What

Wear Wednesday at the W: Spring Style Edit featuring seasonal picks from Ali Brownrigg of Seattle magazine, Amanda Zurita of Seattle Met, Rachel Gallaher of Gray magazine, and Alyson Andrews of Seattle Refined. 

When

Wednesday, March 18, 2015 from 5-7pm

Where

W Seattle 1112 Fourth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Why

Because talking about fashion is almost as much fun as shopping for it. Join us for this fun, informal, creative conversation about spring style in Seattle!

The perfect card for your sweet Valentine

Sad Shop recently unveiled a new series of cards just in time for Valentine's Day! These cards are the perfect way to cut to the chase and tell someone exactly how you feel. Sad Shop cards are currently available at Queen Anne Books, Horseshoe, Elliot Bay Book Co., and Phinney Books. 

Come meet artist Katie Davis in person at the Seattle Nordstrom store this Thursday and Friday for a special Valentine's Day pop-up shop. She'll be helping shoppers pick out the perfect card for everyone on their list. 

What: Sad Shop Valentine's Day Pop-Up

When: Thursday 2/12 and Friday 2/13 from 4-8 p.m.

Where: Nordstrom 500 Pine St. Seattle, WA 98101

Why: Because funny cards are the best kind of cards