If you're a "Project Runway" fan, then you already know the catchphrase "Make it work." That's what Joey Shearer-Harvey does at her West Seattle sewing studio, Make It Workshop. Open since this past May in the former Gatewood Baptist school building (recently converted to artist studios), Make It Workshop offers classes for those of us long on creative inspiration but short on sewing skills.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 16, 2008
I've loved and admired downtown women's boutique Alhambra for years. Owners Shakir and Serpil Kaymaz have refined taste and fill their 18-year-old store with exotic and alluring jewelry, clothing and accessories. For the past three years, the couple has been designing a clothing line called A to Z. Shakir manages the business end of things, and his wife Serpil is the designer, creating an impressive 50 styles per collection and managing the entire design process -- from A to Z, if you will -- including fabric production and garment manufacturing by the small factories that she contracts with in Turkey.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 17, 2008
Passion, enthusiasm and expertise are perfect words to describe the husband-and-wife team behind the body care line Cory Michael Enterprises. Cory Michael and Jesseca Clark have been manufacturing their line since the late 1990s, and until recently operated two boutiques and spas in Dallas that showcased their products. The couple moved to Seattle a year and a half ago, and just a week ago opened a spa in South Lake Union. A large loft functions as their home, their manufacturing facility and an appointment-only spa, allowing the Clarks to pursue their passion for natural body care at all hours.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 18, 2008
For some of us, a houseplant is like another member of the family, worthy of love, attention and TLC. Jay Longtin, a former sales representative, is one of those green-thumbed Seattleites who appreciate the fresh oxygen and soothing green that houseplants provide. A lover of exotic and tropical houseplants, Longtin has parlayed this passion into Envy, his month-old plant and patio store in the Central District.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 19, 2008
Former Olivine owner Julie Merriman Wray has picked a winner with her new Fremont store, Show Pony, delivering up a delightful selection of jewelry, handbags, hats, shoes, cards, art and more.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 22, 2008
Some people get a thrill from thrift shopping, rummaging through the racks at Value Village or Saint Vincent de Paul, hoping to stumble on a pristine pair of vintage green suede Ferragamo flats that fit your feet like Cinderella's slippers. If you're not one of those people, but love clothing from the 1940s through the 1990s, then you should visit Pike/Pine shop Vu, where the thrifting is done for you.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 23, 2008
Compared to the bounty of high-end women's boutiques in Seattle, it's slim pickings for men who appreciate finely crafted clothing and accessories. Downtown's Jack Straw Filaments, open since early September, is a gift to those fashion-conscious men of Seattle.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 25, 2008
We live in the Emerald City, where green means more than the color of our conifers. Many Seattleites are committed to living as eco-consciously as possible, using the green in their wallets to support environmentally friendly businesses.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 26, 2008
Nestled in a nondescript office building at the southern tip of West Seattle near the Vashon Ferry terminal is a sweet spot for fabulous skincare called Inspired Health & Beauty. While it might be out of the way for some, it's worth the trip if you love custom facials that use exceptional products administered in a relaxing and inviting environment.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 27, 2008
Right now, two well-known retailers, Lucy and Anthropologie, are donating the proceeds from the sales of exclusive (and great-looking) T-shirts to nonprofit organizations committed to the prevention of breast cancer and AIDS.
By Alison Brownrigg | September 30, 2008
