Shop Local Seattle: Small Business Saturday Guide

When I launched this site back in 2008 it was originally called "Seattle Boutique Blogspot" and was designed as a platform to showcase local designers and boutiques. Little did I know that I would still be blogging here nearly a decade later and guess what? I haven't run out of relevant content to share with readers because Seattle is rich with incredible local makers and independent shops. While I may have changed the name of this site over the years, the sentiment remains the same. Shopping local is vital to our community and I encourage you to get out and discover all the gems in your own backyard.

Small Business Saturday is finally here and there are many fabulous ways to shop local this season. We rounded up our favorite brands and boutiques in an easy to use guide organized by neighborhood. Find your hood and get out to #ShopSmall!

// Queen Anne // 

Queen Anne Dispatch - A great mix of fashion and gifts for the entire family, owned locally by sisters Tara Espinoza and Sabrina Rinderle. They can even wrap, pack, and ship gifts anywhere in the world.
Queen Anne Dispatch 2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Peridot - Known for its mix of stylish womenswear and fashion accessories, Peridot boutique is a staple on the hill and consistently provides fashion fans with a fun shopping experience. They have everything from dresses to sleepwear, and even a curated assortment of shoes.
Peridot 2135 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Three Birds Home - You'll want to buy everything in this home goods store including cards, stationery, soap sets, wall decor, Tattly Tattoos, and jewelry. Their holiday decor alone makes it a must-visit boutique in Seattle.
Three Birds Home 2107 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98119

Stuhlbergs - Located on the corner of Queen Anne Avenue and West Blaine Street, Stuhlbergs is literally a Queen Anne home turned into a boutique. You'll find greeting cards, gifts, baby goods including apparel, toys, and keepsakes, plus home furnishings.
Stuhlbergs 1801 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98119

Meadow - This little shop is tucked away from the main street on Queen Anne but it's well worth the visit. Meadow has women's fashion and accessories plus small home goods including soaps and toiletries that make great gifts.
Meadow 1959 6th Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119

Queen Anne Frame - Located on top of Queen Anne Hill, Queen Anne Frame does WAY more than custom framing. They also stock an amazing assortment of jewelry (including some great local brands) plus, they have gifts for everyone on your list including coffee table books and wall decor.
Queen Anne Frame 1621 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa - Although this isn't a traditional retail store, Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa does have a curated assortment of Kari Gran Skincare, Osmosis Skin Products, and private label Bella Fiore fragrances that make great stocking stuffers!
Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa 1629 Queen Anne Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109

// Capitol Hill //

Sway & Cake - Located near Chophouse Row on Capitol Hill, Sway & Cake is the perfect place to shop for the fashion fans on your list. You'll find women's clothing, jewelry (hello, evil eye necklaces), hats, candles, and even CBD oils. Seriously, something for everyone.
Sway & Cake 1429 12th Ave. Suite D Seattle, WA 98112

Glasswing - In addition to its beautiful storefront, Glasswing provides shoppers with a fun and imaginative shopping experience for men and women. At the store, you'll often find workshops with makers and even classes on how to keep plants alive (I need to sign up for that one). Brands include Ace & Jig, Creatures of Comfort, and Mara Hoffman.
Glasswing 1525 Melrose Avenue Seattle, WA 98122

Likelihood - For the sneakerheads on your list, Likelihood is a must-visit store on Capitol Hill. They stock an assortment of shoes for men and women from brands like Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Puma. They also carry backpacks and accessories including leather wallets from COMME de Garçons.
Likelihood 1101 E. Union St. Seattle, WA 98122

Sharply - For the guys on your list, Sharply is a must-visit boutique on the hill. In addition to their private label collection, they also stock an assortment of menswear from other brands including Grayers, Jeans Shop New York, and Public Art.
Sharply 500 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122

Totokaelo - If you're looking for luxury fashion in Seattle, look no further than Totokaelo where you'll find everything from Balenciaga baseball caps to Maison Margiela bodysuits and Yohji Yamamoto hats.
Totokaelo 1523 10th Ave. Seattle, WA 98122

Freeman - Since 2010, Scott and Brittany Freeman have been making raincoats that will stand up to the Seattle rain and meet the style criteria of the fashion community. The brand has since expanded to include other categories including knitwear, casual jackets, hats, and socks.
Freeman 713 Broadway E. Seattle, WA 98102

// Downtown Seattle // 

Baby & Co. - You'll find local boutique Baby & Co. nestled on the corner of first and Virginia in Downtown Seattle. For over four decades, this Seattle shop has set a standard of fashion in the city, countering fast fashion with a focus on timeless craftsmanship. The assortment includes apparel and accessories for men and women from brands like Labo.Art, Harvey Faircloth, Homecore, and Lareida.
Baby & Co. 1936 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Jack Straw - Next door to Baby & Co. you'll find Jack Straw which carries high-quality fashion for men and women. In the shop, you'll find a distinct assortment of well-constructed clothing from brands including Issey Miyake, Eidos, and Mazzarelli.
Jack Straw 1930 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Wayward - Wayward carries an assortment of products for adventurer seekers including concert goers, photographers, travelers, and those who love the outdoors. Featured brands include Patagonia, Filson, Richer Poorer, Rains, and local brand Coal Headwear. Local stores are located Downtown and in Bellevue.
Wayward 204 Pine St. Seattle, WA 98101

Moorea Seal - Further down First Avenue you'll find Moorea Seal, often described as a "Pinterest board come to life" the store stocks an edited assortment of apparel, accessories, jewelry, shoes, beauty products, and home goods. They also have a fabulous assortment of greeting cards and desk accessories for everyone on your list.
Moorea Seal 1012 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98104

The Finerie - Opening its doors in September of 2006, The Finerie is where distinctive style meets timeless appeal. Carrying merchandise for men and women, the first avenue boutique stocks a mix of merchandise that takes clients from day to evening, in style.
The Finerie 1215 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

Buki - You've heard about collagen supplements, now allow Seattle brand Buki to introduce you to collagen clothing. Launched earlier this spring, the collagen collection allows women to relay moisture to the skin while also providing UPF 50+ sun protection. If you have people on your holiday shopping list that are crazy about the fusion of fashion and technology, Buki is the brand for you.
Buki 1826 Sixth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101

// Pioneer Square // 

Clementines - At this Pioneer Square shop you'll find cool must-have shoes from a variety of brands including Chie Mihara, Intentionally Blank, and  Rollie Nation. Owner Linda Walsh loves supporting local makers so she also stocks apparel from Seattle brands including Poppyseed, A. Oei, and Prairie Underground. Downstairs at the shop, you'll find vintage gems from Swan Dive.
Clementines 310 Occidental Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104

flora & henri - Founded in 1998, flora & henri was one of the first brands to introduce a neutral color palette to children's clothing.  Since then, the brand offering has expanded to include other categories including womenswear, men's accessories, shoes, and home goods in its 3,000 square-foot-concept shop in Pioneer Square. The company does an expansive wholesale business around the globe and is famous for its beautifully crafted childrenswear.
flora & henri 401 First Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104

H. Bailey Curated Resale - Owner Hilary Bailey Burnett curates vintage menswear for her Pioneer Square shop that is designed to help men achieve their signature style. The store features vintage merchandise from the 60's-80's and offers styling services for clients.
H. Bailey Curated Resale 108 Cherry St. Seattle, WA 98104

// Fremont // 

Pipe & Row - Located in Fremont, Pipe & Row is a must-visit boutique for fashion fans in Seattle. Since 2014, owner Kayla Boehme has been stocking her shop with coveted merchandise from brands like Just Female, Wolf Circus, Vagabond, and Stutterheim. You'll also find handbags, sunglasses, and scented candles.
Pipe & Row 611 NE 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103

Show Pony - Featuring a mix of women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories from brands like Prairie Underground and Foamy Wader, Show Pony is a great boutique to visit whether you're shopping for yourself or for holiday gifts. Don't miss the assortment of equestrian-inspired arts and prints!
Show Pony 702 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103

Les Amis - Featured in Goop's Seattle City Guide, Les Amis is one of three stores owned by Seattleite Becky Buford. The roster of stores also includes Essenza and Liten, but for this particular guide, we're focused on Les Amis because of its unique mix of brands including Ulla Johnson, Rachel Comey, and Isabel Marant. We're talking Pacific Northwest luxury fashion gifts worth giving, nestled in a quaint Fremont storefront.
Les Amis 3420 Evanston Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103

Brooks Running - Located on Stone Way, the Brooks Running Trailhead store carries a full assortment of Brooks Running shoes and apparel for men and women. In stock now you'll find great gifts for every runner on your list, including the recently released Ugly Sweater long sleeve tee.
Brooks Running 3400 Stone Way N. Seattle, WA 98103

// Madison Valley // 

Canopy Blue - Canopy Blue has been a staple in Madison Valley since its inception carrying an edited mix of women's apparel and accessories. At the shop, you'll find long sleeve lace dresses by Tallulah, Mother Denim, and must-have pajama sets by Cosabella.
Canopy Blue 3121 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

Emry - Recently opened by Ryan Walsh, Emry boutique is new to Madison Park and has been well-received by the community. It's located in the same plaza as Canopy Blue and stocks fashion-forward merchandise for women including dresses by Parker NY, bodysuits by Amuse Society, and denim by James Jeans.
Emry 3131 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

Lika Love - With 3 boutiques in the Seattle area Lika Love is a fast-growing fashion brand in the city. Owner Malika Siddiq focuses on selecting styles for the store that are flattering on a wide range of body types.
Lika Love 2921 E. Madison St. Seattle, WA 98112

// West Seattle //

Carmilia's- If you've ever shopped in West Seattle you'll instantly recognize Carmilia's by its black and white striped awning. Inside you'll find a great selection of merchandise from brands like Three Dots, Veronica M, and Michael Stars.
Carmilia's 4528 California Ave S.W. Seattle, WA 98116

Alair - This neighborhood gift shop is the perfect place to shop local this holiday season. Alair opened its doors in West Seattle in December of 2016 and offers customers a unique mix of gift-able merchandise including novelty tees, key chains, tote bags, greeting cards, and even locally made body scrubs by Estella.
Alair 3280 California Ave. SW Seattle, WA 98116

// Bellevue //

La Ree - Founded by Rachael Nov in 2007, La Ree is consistently ranked a favorite shopping destination of Seattleites and Eastsiders alike. Stocking brands like Jerome Dreyfuss, Veronica Beard, and Isabel Marant, La Ree is also known for carrying merchandise from a variety of local brands including Ampersand as Apostrophe and Serpentine Jewelry Design.
La Ree 11 103rd Ave. NE Bellevue, WA 98004

David Lawrence - Located in The Shops at The Bravern, David Lawrence is a high-end boutique that carries an edited assortment of designer brands for men and women. Featured designers include Jeremy Scott, Versace, and Herve Leger.
David Lawrence 700 110th Ave. NE. Bellevue, WA 98004

// Online //

KACYYOM- Known for her luxurious Italian leather handbags, Kacy Yom's namesake collection recently expanded overseas and is now available in Europe. You can shop the line locally at Kacyyom.com or shop an edited assortment in person at The Spa at The Four Seasons.

Serpentine Jewelry Design - Bellevue moms and best friends Jill and Sally launched Serpentine Jewelry Design as a way of encouraging women to have fun with jewelry and stop saving it for special occasions. In fact, the motto for their line has become "from carpool to cocktails". Yes, you can wear their jewelry from school drop-off to spin class, lunch with the girls, and even dinner + drinks on the town. Select pieces are available locally at Butch Blum downtown and La Ree in Bellevue. You can also shop online at SerpentineJewelryDesign.com.

Beet World - If you have kids in your life, Beet World is a must-visit site for stylish kids clothing. Designed in Kirkland and made using sustainable sourcing and production methods, the size range is 2T-12 and everything is priced at $50 and under. BeetWorld.com.

Loho - Low-rise hosiery for badass babes. Founder Darrah Christel also recently added socks, so check out the line and change the way you think about hosiery forever. The waistbands are a game changer. Learn more at Loho.us.

Andieanderin - Inspired by influential women both past and present, Andieanderin founders Lisa and Cara launched a collection of silk neckties to celebrate boss babes we know and love. The debut collection featured 100% silk pussy bow ties inspired by Malala, Mother Teresa, and even Michelle Obama. The second collection was just released earlier this month and includes ties inspired by the mathematicians at NASA and even local philanthropist Melinda Gates. Shop online at Andieanderin.com.

Jane And The Shoe - This cool Seattle-based shoe company has incredible shoes, all priced under $150. From must-have ankle boots to slip-on mules, this brand has fashion-forward shoes for all the fashion fans on your list. Janeandtheshoe.com.

// Local Beauty // 

K Ba-Nana - This Korean-beauty inspired pop-up opened its doors in late August and will be sticking around through the end of the year. Occupying the old Apple store at University Village, K Ba-Nana has everything you need for holiday gifting including sheet masks, jade rollers, make-up sets, and even Strawberry Pocky.
K Ba-Nana 2656 NE University Village St. Seattle, WA 98105 (New store opening at University Village Spring 2019)

Julep - The nail polish and beauty gift sets from Julep make a perfect holiday gift for the beauty mavens on your list and many of the sets are currently perfectly priced at $25 and under. Shop the full collection online or visit one of Julep's Parlors around town to shop in person. Julep.com.

French Girl Organics - Every single product in the French Girl Organics Collection is handmade in Seattle using natural, plant-based ingredients. My favorites from the line include the Rose Facial Polish and the luxurious Neroli Eye Serum. The brand also recently released bundle sets for the holidays! You can find French Girl Organics at select Madewell stores around town, or shop the entire selection online at FrenchGirlOrganics.com.

Velvet Report - This Seattle-based site helps women find high-quality, vegan beauty products that are non-toxic and chemical free. The assortment includes everything from dry sheet masks, to eyeshadow palettes, and even lipsticks. VelvetReport.com.

Herbivore Botanicals - This local beauty brand has a global following and is well-known for it's safe, non-toxic, and highly effective beauty products. I'm a fan of the Coconut Milk bath soap and I also have my eye on the Wellness Crystal Water bottle. Shop an edited assortment from the brand in person at Seattle boutique flora & henri, or shop online at HerbivoreBotanicals.com.

Introducing Fashion Field Trips with Sydlovesfashion

I've been blogging about indie designers and boutiques in Seattle since 2008, so it feels very natural to finally add a video component to the mix. In my first "Fashion Field Trip" video, I take fashion photographer Karla Melgarejo to visit Seattle boutique flora & henri in Pioneer Square. Karla is new to the city and hasn't had a chance to get to know the shopping scene yet. Follow along as we explore the 3,000 square foot flora & henri concept shop together. Watch the debut Fashion Field Trip Video here. 

Jujubeet launches premium juice cleanse "The Program"

I recently had the chance to check out Jujubeet's new premium juice cleanse and I'm here to report that it is in fact magical. The cleanse has been in development for over a year now and it was definitely worth the wait. I've done a Jujubeet cleanse before and loved my experience, but this cleanse is on another level. The flavors are rich, the packaging is elevated, and every blend is 100% organic and developed by Jujubeet's in-house dietician to nourish the body with a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and phytonutrients.

The cleanse is designed to be consumed in a specific order and includes an assortment of elixirs, juices, smoothies. You're also encouraged to drink additional water in between the juices to help your body detox. I never felt hungry during my cleanse because the juices and smoothies were so filling.  My favorite juice of the cleanse was #2 "Gold" (pictured above) which is designed to help fight inflammation provide a powerful dose of anti-oxidants. The blend includes carrots, apple, ginger root, turmeric, coconut manna, and lucuma powder. I also really loved #5 "Vitality" which is a power smoothie featuring raw beet juice, spinach, dates, cayenne, and almond butter. The flavor blends are delicious and each one contains high-quality, locally sourced ingredients from small businesses in the Puget Sound including Herban Wellness in Kirkland.

This is a great cleanse to do in between Thanksgiving and Christmas to make your skin glow and give your digestive system a break during the holiday season. Grab a friend and sign up to experience a juice fast together. One thing to know about the new cleanse is that it will only be available in limited quantities and only on the first Monday of each month in order to allow Jujubeet to maintain the highest level of quality standards. Visit Jujubeet.com for more information and to view a full list of Seattle locations.

Fashion Calendar: HYEI Studio Pop-up by Guillermo Bravo x SILVAE

Two local brands will be featured at a special fashion pop-up at Love City Love in Seattle this Saturday, November 10th from 7-10 p.m. Guests of the HYEI Studio Pop-Up will get to shop womenswear from indie brand SILVAE and be among the first to check out footwear, apparel, and accessories by emerging brand Guillermo Bravo.

The event will include a dye lab and drinks from 7-10 p.m. and remain open until 1 a.m for a dance party with Young Strong. Come celebrate local fashion and meet designer Deborah Roberts of SILVAE and Luis Velez of Guillermo Bravo. #ShopLocal #SeattleFashion

What: HYEI Studio Pop-Up by Guillermo Bravo and SILVAE
When: Saturday, November 10
Where: Love City Love 1402 E. Pike St. Seattle, WA 98122
Time: 7-10 p.m. / Dance Party 10 p.m. - 1 a.m.
RSVP: Via Facebook

Fashion Calendar: Beet World trunk shows in Seattle

Since it's launch in August of this year, Seattle brand Beet World has been winning over the hearts and wallets of stylish parents all over the city who love contemporary kids fashion but don't want to spend hundreds of dollars buying designer clothing. Beet World offers beautiful, European-inspired dresses, pants, and tops for girls in sizes 2T-12, all made from high-quality, 100% woven cotton.

Founded by Seattle mom Ashima Singhal, Beet World brings together the best of classic children's clothing at a price point parents can actually afford. In fact, everything in the collection is priced under $50, making it accessible for parents who are looking for quality alternatives to fast fashion for kids. Most children's clothing is made from knit cotton that often shrinks after the first wash. Beet World clothing is made from high-quality, sustainably-sourced woven cotton that holds up to washing and everyday wear.  Beet World also believes in giving back. A portion of the proceeds from every sale is donated to a rotating list of children's literacy programs around the world. 

The brand is hosting two trunk shows this week that are free and open to the public. Join Beet World at Jujubeet in Bellevue on Thursday, October 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to view the full collection for fall. Beet World will also be hosting a trunk show this Saturday, October 13 at the University Village Pottery Barn Kids store from 12 - 4 p.m. 

Stop by and say hello if you're in the neighborhood! In the meantime, check out the entire collection and learn more at Beet-World.com. 

12th Fan Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Shop in London

London is one of my all-time favorite cities in the world. My husband and I spent our honeymoon there back in 2009 and we've made it a point to visit every year since. London is a city filled with art, history, and culture. Travelers will find that there's something for everyone to enjoy including music, food, historical tours, of course, shopping. For Seahawks fans heading to London for the game next week, here's our style guide on how to spend quality time in London.

Most travelers will spend excessive amounts of time trying to decide where to stay in London. If you prefer to be central to the city, stay in South Kensington where you'll be within walking distance to Hyde Park and have easy access to several London Underground stations.

We've stayed at several hotels in this neighborhood on various trips to London including the Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt and The Crowne Plaza, but our favorite by far has been The Kensington Hotel (shown above) because of the quality of the guest rooms and the service. They were also great with kids and spoiled our children with nightly cookies and milk during our stay. They even put up a small kids tent in our hotel room so that the kids would have a secret hideout.

It's easy to eat your way through London because nearly every department store has a food hall offering everything from light snacks to sweet treats and full meals. There's also street crepes, croissants at cafes, and traditional pub classics like mushy peas and fish and chips. Here are some of my favorite places to eat in London:

Kensington Crepes - This restaurant is my favorite in London because I'm obsessed with French crepes. Kensington Crepes is located just steps away from the Victoria & Albert Museum and they do both sweet and savory crepes. My favorite crepe is Le Complète with turkey, brie, and a free range egg.  My kids love the classic crepe with fresh whipped cream and strawberries. 

Garfunkels- If you check the reviews on TripAdvisor you'll find that many tourists stop here for their first meal in London. Why do people love it? Well for starters Garfunkels serves classic fish and chips, there's never a wait and it's completely family friendly. Yes, it's absolutely a tourist trap, but that's kind of the point. If you're hungover after the game, you should definitely stop by Garfunkels for a traditional English breakfast. 

Pret a Manger - These cafes are basically the "Starbucks of London" and serve coffee along with a variety of food options. They have a great assortment of sandwiches and soups that are easy to grab on-the-go or when you need a quick snack.

Best Burgers - If you're homesick and craving a burger, check out Honest Burger in South Kensington. Their classic cheeseburger pairs perfectly with rosemary fries and chipotle mayo. For those that like burgers but also want an expanded menu that includes salads, check out Byron Burger. 

Selfridges Rooftop Restaurant - If you like al fresco dining make time to visit the Selfridges rooftop restaurant. It features rotating themes and is currently serving traditional Italian food including crostini, scallops with white wine, fritto misto, and spaghetti carbonara. 

Hummingbird Bakery - Famous for its red velvet cupcakes, Hummingbird Bakery is an institution in Notting Hill and serves up delicious made-from-scratch cakes and cupcakes. If you visit the Portobello Market in Notting Hill stop by the bakery for a taste of heaven. 

Biscuiteers - If you love cookies and have "cookie monsters" at home, stop by Biscuiteers in Notting Hill. They do hand-iced cookies that are Instagram-worthy and delicious to eat. Biscuiteers offers single cookies and gift boxes for every occasion. They also do cookie icing workshops and private classes. 

Electric Diner - Located on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, Electric Diner is a great place for date night. In fact, my husband and I had dinner here on our honeymoon. The food is great and the desserts are not to be missed. This restaurant is next door to The Electric Cinema, the oldest working cinema in London. They also offer dining specials for guests going to see movies (terms and conditions apply). 

Pizzeria & Canti Prosecco Bar - Located in Harrods, this pizzeria is a great place to recharge after a day of shopping. They serve Neopolitan-style pizzas and also offer rocket (arugula) and parmesan salads and classic minestrone soup. 

Nag's Head - For a classic London pub experience while visiting Covent Garden stop by Nag's Head. They offer a modern take on traditional British classics. Everything on the menu is great! I loved the Beef & Rioja Pie with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and red wine gravy. It's a hearty meal best served with a full-bodied wine.

There's amazing shopping in London any time of year, the question is, what kind of shopping experience best suits your style? For a classic London shopping experience head to Oxford Street to hit all the British faves. Start at Marble Arch near Hyde Park and work your way down the main shopping row. If you love more of an indie scene, head to Shoreditch to shop Boxpark. If you're looking for boutiques, head to Notting Hill. And for a great mix of art, fashion, and food, there's Covent Garden. Don't forget, there's also pretty incredible shopping at museums and art galleries if you exit through the gift shop. Here are some of the "can't miss" places to shop in London:

Primark - This store is crazy big and can be a bit overwhelming so go early if you can to avoid "black Friday" style lines and crowds. The deals are good, almost too good, so it's fairly easy to go crazy here. Primark carries everything from women's fashion to kids clothing, men's merchandise, and home goods. This is a great store to stock up on clothing for kids. They have fashion-forward styles and really, really good pricing for budget-friendly moms.

Harrods - It's natural to be at a loss for words when it comes to describing Harrods. After all, it's the world's most famous department store and occupies a 5-acre site, garnering more than 330 departments. At Harrods, you'll find everything from fashion to food, shoes, gifts, souvenirs, on-site restaurants, a champagne bar, a giant toy store called "Toy Kingdom", and even a spa. Up until 2014, there was even an on-site luxury pet store where you could purchase animals.

River Island - Fashion fans may be familiar with River Island because of its past capsule collections with singer Rihanna. The brand has stores across the UK and stocks bold, colorful merchandise for the entire family. River Island has great pricing and recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a body positivity campaign for fall.

Selfridges - Hands down this my favorite department store in the world. Selfridges is fun, innovative, and always working on something new. The store was named the "Best Department Store" in the world by the Global Department Store Summit and also has a focus on sustainability. The Selfridges Oxford Street store occupies a full city block and has multiple restaurants, beauty departments, and a 35,000 square-foot shoe hall. Selfridges is also known for exclusive merchandise from cult brands, so if you love limited-edition merchandise you can't get anywhere else, chances are you'll find it at Selfridges.

Liberty of London - Best known for its signature floral graphic prints, Liberty of London is an iconic British department store that is well worth a visit. Located in a beautiful Tudor-style building in London's West End, Liberty carries fashion, jewelry, beauty, accessories, home goods, and gifts.

Miss Selfridge - UK high street brand Miss Selfridge has more than 250 stores worldwide and is also available through partners like Asos and Topshop. The store is aimed at teens looking for affordable, on-trend fashion and is fun to shop for seasonal must-haves. They also carry a full range of fashion in petite sizing.

Topshop Oxford Circus - The flagship Topshop store at Oxford Circus is three full floors of fashion including vintage pieces you won't find anywhere else. The store has a basement cafe, a Hershesons Blow Dry Bar, a nail salon, and even a piercing parlor. I usually go here multiple times on my trips to London either for blowouts or to shop the petites section. There's always a DJ spinning music on the main floor and a healthy line at the cupcake kiosk on level one.

Yes, this is a marathon blog post, but if you're still reading, chances are you're looking for a few things to do in London. I highly recommend visiting the Victoria & Albert Museum to see the current fashion exhibit "Fashioned from Nature". The Tate Modern is another great museum that is worthwhile if you have the time as is the National Portrait Gallery. If you only do one thing while in London, don't miss the Princess Diana fashion exhibit at Kensington Palace. It features her most iconic outfits and includes audio and video components to round out the fashion story.

Enjoy! Oh, and Go HAWKS!

KACYYOM named finalist for Gray Awards

Seattle designer Kacy Yom has been named as a finalist in the fashion category for this year's Gray Awards! This gorgeous local line launched in October of 2017 and has quickly grown to become a favorite among luxury handbag enthusiasts. Designed in Seattle and handmade in Italy, the KACYYOM line features bold colors, timeless silhouettes and innovative design details, including convertible straps for seamless transitions from day to evening.

The KACYYOM collection is available locally at The Spa at Four Seasons and in New York at Dreams on Air and Wolf & Badger, both located in Soho. The line will soon be available in London at the new Wolf & Badger Store in Kings Cross, which is scheduled to open next month.

Kacy's line made the final cut for the Gray Awards out of more than 300 submissions. Gray magazine is hosting an awards party on November 29th at The Sanctuary in Seattle where they will reveal this year's winners across multiple design categories. Tickets are $150 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit The Block Project to help end homelessness. Click here for more information.

Eye Eye Celebrates Fall Fashion With In-Store Eyewear Event

It's already been a week since the Eye Eye "Fall Frame Event" on Capitol Hill and I'm still buzzing with excitement about all the cool frames and vintage glasses the store has in stock right now. We always talk about updating our fashion wardrobes for fall and I feel like that should also include what we're wearing on our FACES. Am I right?

For newbies, Eye Eye is an independent eye clinic and optical shop located on Capitol Hill. In addition to personalized eye care, the team led by Dr. Will Pentecost also offers a curated assortment of frames and sunglasses from over 27 brands. Plus, in true Seattle style, they also offer an insanely incredible assortment of vintage deadstock that gives clients who want something different a one-of-a-kind eyewear experience.

The store carries a range of brands that have a legit celebrity following because you know, if Haley Baldwin is wearing white frames with corner accents, I need them too. Featured brands include Alhem, which recently won a Vogue Fashion Award, Christian Roth, which re-launched Kurt Cobain's signature white sunglasses (pictured above), Krewe, Mr. Leight, and even local brand Rain City, among others.

Oh, and if you're like most Americans who stare at a computer screen all day and experience eye fatigue, Eye Eye can put non-prescription, blue light blocking lenses into any frames. Seattle blogger Brittany Streissguth of Pumps & Plaid (pictured below) recently got a pair to wear while she's blogging to help protect her eyes.

Another fun fact? Eye Eye can put a prescription into snow goggles, which is perfect for people who want to hit the slopes but hate wearing contacts. This is such a brilliant concept and I had no idea it was a "thing". Turns out it is and it's so perfect for the Pacific Northwest where we relish in outdoor adventures during the winter months. 

Eye Eye also carries a high-quality private label line that is budget-friendly and ideal for those looking for an alternative to designer frames. In addition, they have an in-house lab which can turn around frames in 2-3 business days. 

The event was a fun opportunity to see how this cool local company is doing eyewear differently. A variety of bloggers and influencers came out to celebrate and guests enjoyed light bites by Gourmondo Catering (another local favorite!) and swag bags filled with local products from French Girl Organics and Oola Distillery. I can't wait until the next event!

Eye Eye

1317 E. Pine St. 

Seattle, WA 98122

Photo credit: Karya Schanilec

October 11 is National Spread Joy Day

With everything going on in the world today from natural disasters to politics, we all need a little levity in our lives. Spending time on social media has become draining instead of empowering but Seattle-based Knack wants to change all that and spark a new movement on social media that promotes love, kindness, and gratitude. They've formally declared October 11th as National Joy Day and guess what? It's now recognized as an official holiday. To celebrate the occasion, Knack wants to help YOU spread a little joy in the world and will be giving away 1,000 free gifts next Thursday, worth over $80, to anyone willing to let them publish their gift message to serve as an inspiration to others.

The gift includes Fran's Chocolates, 2 special edition Joy journals to capture daydreams and happy moments, Happy Tea from the Art of Tea, Joy candles, mini matches, and 10 Spread Joy postcards. Head over to the Knack website to learn more about National Spread Joy Day and sign up to send a free gift.

Seattleites are invited to celebrate Spread Joy Day in-person next Thursday, October 11 at Chophouse Row on Capitol Hill from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. There will be free food, music, giveaways, and most importantly, lots of joy to share and savor. See you there! #SpreadJoyDay

Seattle Shop Local Guide: 10 things you need from Moorea Seal this season

Fall fashion is officially here and to celebrate the shift in seasons, Seattle boutique Moorea Seal hosted an in-store runway show on Friday night for fans. The showcase featured a variety of versatile looks including cable knit sweaters paired with trousers, slip dresses layered under cozy knit cardigans, plaid dresses paired with berets, jumpsuits, and swoon-worthy ankle boots and accessories.

For those of you who are new to the Moorea Seal brand, there are a few things you should know. The first is that Moorea is a total boss babe who started developing her unique sense of style on Pinterest back in 2011. She rapidly gained nearly 250k followers and opened a brick-and-mortar boutique in Belltown several years later to bring her Pinterest boards to life. Fast forward to 2018 and the store has now been in its new downtown Seattle location for just a little over a year, delighting both global travelers and stylish Seattleites. The assortment of products has also expanded over the years to include apparel, shoes, men's accessories, beauty, and more.

And because we always want to inspire you to shop locally, here's our round-up of 10 fall must-haves from Moorea Seal.

This plaid midi dress is versatile and easy to wear with just about anything. You can dress it up with heels or boots, or go casual with sneakers (as shown above). Wear it with a turtleneck on cold days, or wear it alone under a sweater on days when the sun is shining and you want to show a little skin.

As a fashion blogger, I love to dress up but I also live for fall days when all that's on the agenda is a cozy black sweatshirt, jeans, dark sunglasses, and a pair of slip on shoes. This Visionary sweatshirt perfectly fits the bill. You'll wear it all season long and love every moment wrapped in its ultra-soft interior.

For casual Fridays or any day of the week that seems appropriate for rock-and-roll jeans, I highly recommend this pair of high rise crop denim that beautifully grazes the ankle and of course, highlights a killer pair of shoes.

Prints are big this season which gives even the reluctant fashion fans a reason to have a full-length leopard print coat. This coat actually hits two trends in one, print and texture. Get ready for full stimulation overload.

In case you've been living under a rock, trousers are IN this season. As in, you probably need more than one pair. We love this wide-leg trouser with bow detail from Native Youth. The color is neutral and the outfit combinations are endless.

If regular bags aren't your jam, this vegan leather O Ring backpack is a perfect compromise. This backpack has a minimalist design, clean lines, and a magnetic closure.

When these Dolce Vita booties with snakeskin heels went down the runway on Friday night the crowd let out a collective sigh of delight. There's no question that these boots are a must-have for the season and we also love the fact that they're from a cool local brand.

If you love statement accessories, you'll agree that there's something magical about this Empress Ring by The Fox and Stone, available at Moorea Seal. The ring features a rose gold-plated band and an irregular shaped opal. You might also be surprised to learn that this ring was handmade in Ephrata, Washington. It's ok if you have to google where that is. We did too.

There's nothing I love more than when local stores carry local brands. Here at Sydney Loves Fashion community is something we take very seriously. We're all in this together, so when local stores support local brands, everyone wins. I was delighted to see VEQUE rouge nail polish stocked on the shelves of Moorea Seal. This great local brand has an array of gorgeous colors that are non-toxic and made in the USA.

Last but not least, everyone needs a beautiful notebook to jot down inspirational words and action plans for the season ahead. Yes, I'm a Virgo and I love making plans and executing ideas. Naturally, I also love notebooks. In fact, I would go so far as to say there isn't anything more inspirational than a blank piece of paper because life's possibilities are endless. Go get 'em tiger!

Moorea Seal 

1012 First Ave. 

Seattle, WA 98104

Everything you need to know about the Moorea Seal runway show

Let the fall fashion festivities begin! 

New York Fashion Week may be just around the corner but local fashion fans can kick-off the season in style this Friday with Moorea Seal and Cone + Steiner. The two local brands have partnered on a special runway show that will feature head-to-toe fall fashion looks from brands including UZI, Morning Siren, 3rd Season, Baggu, Baleen, Dolce Vita, and many more. "Fashion is about independence and self-expression," says Crystal Dome, store manager at Moorea Seal, "We want our clients to see themselves on the runway, and feel connected to the freedom and creativity that fashion provides."

The goal of the runway show is to spotlight fall fashion from indie designers and makers while also getting the local fashion community excited about the season ahead. For fall 2018, Moorea Seal will focus on a  variety of trends including bright colors, luxe textures, prints, gender-neutral styling, and creative layering. There's something for everyone in the product mix and don't worry guys, Moorea Seal has you covered too with bags, dopp kits, wallets, and more.

The evening will also include a fashion-forward raffle with prize packs from hosts Moorea Seal and Cone + Steiner, an overnight stay at the Alexis Hotel, an overnight stay at the Seattle Hilton Hotel, and more. Guest who purchase tickets to the event will be automatically entered to win.

Tickets to the event are $25 and include a limited-edition tote bag, raffle entry, light bites and decadent desserts by some of Seattle's best indie treat makers, music by DJ RazberryBerretta, and access to a private VIP shopping experience. Don't miss your chance to kick off the fall fashion season with Moorea Seal and Cone + Steiner. We will be there too, so come say hi!

What: Moorea Seal x Cone + Steiner Fashion Show
When: Friday, September 7, 2018
Where: Moorea Seal 1012 First Ave. Seattle, WA
Time: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $25 via MooreaSeal.com