Fashion Recap: Stylish in Seattle

As the complex relationship between fashion bloggers and the fashion industry continues to evolve, Seattle’s most influential style bloggers gathered to explore key issues and current trends through interactive panel discussions at the first-ever Stylish in Seattle summit. Participating fashion brands including Neiman Marcus, Brooks Running, Julep, and The Shelf, offered bloggers valuable insight on everything from how to establish rapport with a brand to the importance of creating engaging content that resonates with readers. 

Seasoned style bloggers Cassandra LaValle, Moorea Seal and Tiffany Ishiguro rounded out the second panel to discuss the business of blogging and share their personal stories of becoming business owners by launching a second concept. The day concluded with an inspirational keynote speech by freelance travel and style editor Amanda Zurita. 

Guests were treated to refreshments by Fonte coffee and enjoyed sweet treats from Jujubeet, Dianne's Delights and Cupcake Royale. The first 25 people who purchased tickets to Stylish in Seattle also received VIP swag bags featuring products from Brooks Running, Nordstrom Rack, T+J Designs, Bartell Drugs, Susan Grace Skin Care, Neiman Marcus, Fashion First, Compendium, Julep, Gallipot Skin Care, Fit Code and Strideline.

On a personal note, being able to bring the style blogging community together for a day of shared insight and connection was truly amazing. I've been blogging in Seattle since 2008 and have met so many incredible women along the way. Some of whom, remain my very close friends today. We are a unique city. We have a different way of operating, a different dynamic when it comes to interacting with each other. We talk about fashion and style from a different point of view, and that's what I love about being a style blogger in Seattle. It's not what you would expect. It's so much more. 

Sign up for the mailing list at gossip-glamour.com to hear about future Stylish in Seattle events! 

Fashion Calendar: Combatant Gentlemen at Pop-In@Nordstrom

Stylish guys often get the short end of the stick when it comes to shopping for menswear in the city, but that's about to change. In order to meet the rapidly evolving demands of its customer base, Nordstrom has aligned with leading e-tailers to fill the gap including HauteLook, Trunk Club and most recently, Combatant Gentlemen via Pop-In@Nordstrom. Often referred to as the "Warby Parker" of menswear, Combatant Gentlemen cuts out the middlemen and supplies men with Italian Wool suits at a fraction of the typical price. Starting at just $160, Combatant Gentlemen eliminates the markups presented by traditional retail with a vertical supply chain and direct to consumer business model. The company recently released a new app that can curate outfits based on a variety of factors including climate, location, occasion, fit preference, and even previous shopping habits. Additionally, customers can shop online from Combatant Gentlemen using their “Fit Tech” algorithm which translates a customer’s BMI into a perfect fit.

The Seattle Combatant Gentlemen Pop-In@Nordstrom will take place March 4 and 5 and give men an opportunity to get fitted for a custom suit with an experienced tailor personally trained by CEO Vishaal Melwani, a third-generation tailor. Additionally, select apparel from the Combatant Gentlemen line will be available for in-store purchase. Combatant Gentlemen has partnered with Georgetown Brewing Company and Macallan Whisky for the event to provide craft beer and whisky tastings throughout the weekend. A local DJ will also be on site both days spinning tunes for shoppers. 

Guys, listen up: Every man should own at least one great suit, this is your chance to experience the difference of made to measure clothing. Don't miss out! 

5 Glittersweet bags you need to get before they're gone

We have sad news fashion friends, Seattle-based Glittersweet is closing up shop and selling off the last of the remaining inventory as we speak. The progressive close-out sale is winding down and starting today all bags are marked at 75% off. These vinyl bags are handmade in Seattle and when they're gone, they're gone for good. Here are 5 bags you need to get before Glittersweet says goodbye. 

For Sports Fans...The limited-edition Chevron Tote from the Seattle Colors collection is going fast. Perfect for showing a little local love for your favorite Seattle sports team on game day, these bags are durable and have genius design details like a non-slip shoulder strap. On sale now for $24. 

For Travelers...The Ampersand tablet sleeve by Glittersweet is a favorite among travelers who want a stylish way to keep their tablets safe while traveling. If you have a convertible laptop or a tablet, this buy is a no-brainer, especially for under $25. These padded sleeves were handsewn in Seattle and feature adorable appliqué designs. Glittersweet tablet sleeves fit Apple tablets, Kindle Fire and the Microsoft Surface. Limited qty. and styles on sale now for $24. 

For mini fashionistas...If you have little ones in your life, the purselet makes a very sweet and sparkly gift. My one-year-old daughter London received one over the holidays and she absolutely adores it. The short strap can be attached to a single side or used as a shoulder strap. This bag also comes with a longer strap which can be used to convert the purselet into a crossbody bag. On sale now for $14. 

For make-up junkies...The Glittersweet flat cases are the perfect way to tote beauty products around town. Here's a fun fact: I never leave home without my make-up bag because I love having the ability to do touch-ups on the go. These vinyl flat cases will easily fit into your handbag and have fun printed liners and a durable zipper. And since make-up can be a bit messy sometimes, the exteriors can easily be wiped clean.  On sale now for $8.

For stylish spring break adventures...The classic Huckleberry zipper tote by Glittersweet is durable, sparkly and distinct. The zip top closure keeps valuables tucked safely inside and the vinyl exterior showcases colorful applique designs. This bag is the perfect companion for lounging around at Golden Gardens with a book when the sun comes out. On sale now for $34. 

These bags are Seattle staples and they are going F-A-S-T. Mark your calendar for a special close-out sale featuring Glittersweet and Zupers on Saturday, March 12th at Phinney Books. But word to the wise, don't wait until the final sale to snag your favorite bag! 

Style Recap: Neiman Marcus spring trend event

Fashion week may be buzzing in New York, but Neiman Marcus in Bellevue delivered a heavy dose of local fashion on Wednesday afternoon with a spring style presentation highlighting must-have trends for the season. Three local tastemakers were tapped to interpret the trends including Darcy Camden of Styled Seattle, Lisa Cole of Vanguard, and Jennifer McCullum of Seattle magazine. The trio reviewed five of the top trends for spring and discussed styling strategies along with ideas on how to transition key pieces from day to night.

Red is a confident color and there are so many ways to wear it for spring. It was seen on the runway in a full range of shades at shows like Prada, Jason Wu, Marni and Altuzarra. Lisa Cole picked a red leather jacket as one of her favorite ways to wear the trend while Darcy chose a structured blazer and Jenny opted for a head to toe monochrome look featuring a 2-piece red netted crop top with a matching pencil skirt.

We've been living in denim for several seasons now, but this spring denim is all about mixing and matching colors and textures. Dark denim with a grey chambray shirt, a light denim dress layered under a white denim jacket, denim shoes, denim accessories and of course, denim bags.

Embellishments are everywhere for spring and come in many forms including embroidery, bead work, sequins, texture and more. Dip a toe into this trend with an ornate pair of earrings, or go all out with embellishments on prints as seen in the shoes above. More is more my friend.

The Third Piece is something that can be added to an outfit, or taken away to create multiple looks. For spring the third piece can be as easy as a leather jacket or as versatile as a blazer taking any look from day to evening in 5 seconds flat.

Last but not least, lace is a major trend for spring and it happens to be one of my favorite. Lace cuffs on sweatshirts, lace trim on tops and of course, lace embellishments on outerwear make for an easy way to try the trend for spring.

Shop Local: Seattle Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Love is in the air and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Don't worry, there's still plenty of time to shop locally for the perfect gift.

High impact earrings are trending for spring and since gold goes with everything, we rounded-up a few of our favorites from local brands. From left to right: Gold earrings by Veronica and Harold,
Gold Filigree earrings by LK Designs available at JJCaprices.com, Antique Gold Deco Earrings from T+J Designs, Umea Cartilage Earrings by Masha Moon, Swoon Moonstone earrings available at Moorea Seal, Geometric Drop Earrings by Baleen, Diamond Arc Studs by White Space Jewelry.

For the beauty addict in your life....Olivine Atelier Love + Roses Beauty Mist, $38. Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll 'Kiss & Blush', $40. Stila 'A Whole Lot of Love' Limited Edition Make-up Set, $59. Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish, $36. Flowerbomb by Viktor and Rolf $80 at the University Village Sephora store. Julep Restorative Facial Milk for lightweight moisture with skin-boosting oils to treat, hydrate and replenish, special launch price, $28.

Give your sweetheart the gift of ultimate relaxation with a certificate for a spa day in the city. Just in time for Valentine's Day, Bella Fiore Organic Med Spa on Queen Anne is offering an ISUN Chocolate Mask treatment with a detoxifying Rose Petal Foot Bath, 90 minutes for $115. For those who want to be "Wrapped in Red", the Spa at Four Seasons is offering a luxurious mani + pedi featuring Rose shea butter and a calming paraffin dip, 80 minutes for $120. For those that prefer a holistic approach to traditional spa days, a sweat session in an Infrared sauna at City Sweats in Madison Park is the perfect solution. Infrared saunas heat the body deeply and help naturally prompt detoxification. 45-minute sweat sessions start at $45.

In case you haven't heard, Seattle's beloved Glittersweet bags is closing up shop this spring. Give the gift of Glittersweet and save big on the entire line of coveted vinyl bags designed to sparkle in the sun and stand up to the rain. Made in the USA. Daisy Sling Tote, $63. Wildflower Pearl Purse, $96. Huckleberry Zipper Tote, $86. Red Wildflower Tablet Sleeve, $63.

Fashion Calendar: Neiman Marcus Trend Event

Fashion takes on many forms this spring and Neiman Marcus in Bellevue has gathered three very stylish tastemakers to help interpret the season's biggest trends. Darcy Camden, founder of Styled Seattle, Lisa Cole, Style Writer for Vanguard, and Jennifer McCullum of Seattle magazine will join forces on Wednesday, February 10th at The Bravern for a special style presentation. Guests will be treated to refreshments and an informal fashion show as each stylist puts their own spin on spring trends from the Neiman Marcus 'It List'. Join the discussion and prepare to be inspired by the colors, shapes, textures and styling techniques that will dominate the season. 

What: Neiman Marcus Spring Trend Presentation 

When: Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Where: Neiman Marcus 11111 NE 8th St. Bellevue, WA 98004

Time: 11:30am 

RSVP: - This event has ended - 

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and the countdown to find the perfect gift is on. Here's our guide to finding the perfect gift for that someone special.

For moms we adore.....Glittersweet Wildflower tote, Diptyque Rosaviola Candle available at Neiman Marcus, Kate Spade Cedar Street wallet, YSL Kiss and Love Makeup Palette, Estee Lauder 'Le Rouge' Lipstick in Red Ego via Nordstrom.

For super sweet little girls.... Lego Junior Supermarket Suitcase set, Kate Spade Kids Glitter headband, Hello Kitty Valentine Hearts Plush, Fashion Angels play tent available at Nordstrom.com, Glamourpuss book by Sarah Weeks, Piggy Paint all-natural nail polish.

For your best friend....Kate Spade Rose Print Metro Watch, Charbonnel et Walker Marc De Champagne Pink Truffles, Ciate London x Olivia Palermo Fashion Edit Nail Set, Jessica Simpson 'Mekos' sandal, YSL Rouge Volupte available at Sephora, Diana Vreeland 'Simply Divine' perfume, Dark Rose Pendant Earrings by LK Designs available via JJCaprices.com.

For new mama friends....Rebecca Minkoff mini wallet for on-the-go errands available via ShopBop, Momstrology book by The AstroTwins available on Amazon.com, Gorjana Midi Rings, Dylan's Candy Bar cupcake filled with sour watermelon candy, Tatcha Luminous Overnight Memory Serum, Bottega Veneta Sleep Mask available via Neiman Marcus.

For anyone on your list.....Bright Pink Fox Fur Keychain via T+J Designs, Herbivore Coco Rose Lip Conditioner, Kate Spade 'Just Add Water' bottle available via Nordstrom, Julep 'Amanda' polish, Ban.Do Gem Speaker, OMG iPhone 6 case available via Moorea Seal.

Last but not least for my adventerous friends in Sydney, enter to win a Valentine's Day getaway in the Blue Mountains valued at $3500. The winner will enjoy two nights at an exclusive couple's retreat and over $1300 worth of romantic flowers, candles, chocolates and a luxe bottle of Moet et Chandon on arrival. The Love Cave giveaway ends February 14th, 2016. Good luck lovies!

Seattle Shopping Guide: Fremont

If you want to explore the independent shopping scene in Seattle, head to Fremont. It's full of boutiques, bars, restaurants, and on Sundays, a fabulous Farmer's Market. Check out our recap of the best places to shop, dine and play in Fremont.

Your first shopping stop in Fremont should definitely be Pipe + Row. In addition to affordable price points, it's the mix of labels like Finders Keepers and Keepsake that had me at hello. In stock now you'll find a full assortment of apparel, accessories, jewelry, sunglasses, pom pom keychains and even shoes. Shop online and get free shipping anywhere in the USA. 611 NE 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103Stocking brands like Rachel Comey, Gary Graham, and Isabel Marant, Les Amis is a style destination in Fremont.  They also carry local favorites including Alice Noon bags and Jamie Joseph jewelry. 3420 Evanston Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103Just around the corner from Les Amis you'll find its sister store, Essenza. Stocking body products, skin care, fine jewelry, perfume and even a curated selected of children's wear, Essenza is a great place to shop for gifts. Featured brands include Grown Alchemist, Herbivore (a local gem!), Rockstella, Antica Farmacista and more. Gift wrapping is available. 615 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103On the corner of 35th and Evanston avenue North, Burnt Sugar carries shoes, gifts, accessories and bags for women. Stop in for a new pair of shoes, a gift for a friend or a brand new handbag for the season. Sign up for the mailing list and get $10 off your first order of $100 or more. 601 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103If you're in the mood for skincare products don't miss the new Aesop store. This Australia-based brand has been around since 1987 and focuses on plant-based skin, hair and body products. If you're new to the brand, I recommend trying out one of the travel sets to sample a few of the essentials from the line. 3415 Fremont Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103

For an authentic boutique shopping experience in Seattle, add Show Pony to your list of must-visit boutiques. Offering a mix of contemporary clothing and consignment, Show Pony also stocks Seattle-based brands like Prairie Underground and Veronica & Harold. 702 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103And with Valentine's Day just around the corner don't miss Bellefleur Lingerie featuring European and designer lingerie for women. You'll also find alluring sleepwear and exceptional customer service. Bra fittings and bridal registry available. 3504 Fremont Pl. N. Seattle, WA 98103

There are many great places to eat in Fremont, but here are just a few of my favorites and trust me, it wasn't easy trying to narrow it down.

If you're in the mood for savory noodles, short ribs with rice and melt in your mouth dumplings, head over to Revel. The food is incredibly delicious which means the wait times can be a little excessive, especially during peak dining hours. Arrive early or round up a party of 6 so that you can reserve a table. You'll find happy hour pricing on food and drinks in the bar daily from 4-6pm. 403 N. 36th St. Seattle, WA 98103

El Camino is a staple in Fremont as far as I'm concerned. If you're in the mood for Mexican food, this is the place to be. The enchiladas en mole are amazing and of course, you can't go wrong with the traditional tacos de carne asada. Weekend brunch is served from 11am-3pm Saturday and Sunday. 607 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103

Head to Pie for savory and sweet bites to satisfy any craving. From traditional chicken pot pie to a more regional smoked salmon pie, there's something for everyone on the menu, including mini pies that are perfect for kids. 3515 Fremont Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103

Mark your calendars now because the annual Fremont Solstice Fair is coming June 17-19th.  It's a free-spirited weekend with music, food, crafts and community. You'll find yoga, a doggy parade, music and more.

Seattle-based Brooks Running has a beautiful flagship store in Fremont that is loved by locals, including non-runners. Get a glimpse into the company culture, pick up some lifestyle shoes from the Heritage collection and enjoy a free game of ski ball before you leave.  3400 Stone Way N. Seattle, WA 98103

Gas Works park located at the north end of Lake Union has sweeping views of the city and is the perfect place to perch for a picnic lunch on a sunny day. Spread out a blanket, watch the seaplanes come and go and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

4 Spring Fashion Must-Haves

I know what you’re thinking: Spring is not exactly around the corner, and we’ve still got a couple months of cold weather to trudge through. But even in the thick of winter, we can begin looking forward to the spring sunshine and all the fashion that comes with the season.

A lot of the spring styles that debuted on the runways back in September have fashion lovers around the world testing their patience. There are so many fun trends to choose from, it will be hard to pick a favorite. For those of us who also have a hard time waiting, there's no time like the present to start stocking up for spring. I’ve rounded up some of the biggest trends for the season to help streamline your shopping list. Without further ado (because you’ve already waited this long!)… Here are 4 spring fashion must-haves to get your hands on right now.

A Romantic Maxi
Lace, flowing fabric, and colors that make you want to sail off into the sunset in the South of France. Romance is in the air this spring.  Get the look with pastel colored dresses, tulle skirts, floral embellishments and fringe details. This is a great trend to experiment with Rose Quartz, one of the new Pantone "color of the year" picks. (Shown above: Maxi dresses from Asos.com)

Anything Off the Shoulder
Pulling inspiration from earlier eras, off-the-shoulder styles are back and bigger than ever this spring. Appearing in both dress and blouse varieties, off-the-shoulder details are sure to be a staple in every woman’s spring wardrobe. It’s hard not to feel sweet yet sassy in one of these shoulder-baring garments. (Shown above: Rachel Zoe mini dress, Love Fire lace dress, Tularosa romper)

The tie-dye top
Spring style is heading straight back to the seventies with tie dye tops, dresses, swimwear and more. Finally, designers are drawing inspiration from the actual season at hand and providing ready-to-wear garments that are both practical and fun. This fashion week trend report from Style Caster notes that the spring '16 runway shows included a lot of batik, tie-dye, Baha pullovers, bucket hats, and loose linen. Add a pair of denim shorts and you're all set.

The Fashion Sneaker
Many women are trading in their beloved heels for more comfortable footwear. While I have mixed opinions about this phenomenon, one thing that cannot be argued is that fashion brands have come to the table with some very stylish options. Enter the fashion sneaker: a high-brow take on once-urban streetwear. Fashion sneakers are more than your average pair of Adidas. This season we will see sneakers decked out with over-the-top embellishments, adorned with funky patterns, and soaring high on platforms for added height. This fashion website mirrors my thoughts on this trend exactly: “I keep seeing girls in cool sneakers and want a pair too.” It looks like this trend is just something I'm going to have to own. (Shown above: Brooks Running, Kurt Geiger, Christian Louboutin)