The first hint that you're in for a treat is the amazing steel shoe sculpture on the storefront of this West Seattle shoe salon. The bow-tied pilgrim pump is the work of local artist Rachel Alber, who makes some progressive metal jewelry as well, available inside the cozy shop.
Clementine [0] is the newest addition to the budding boutique scene in West Seattle. Not surprisingly, owner Linda Walsh loves shoes. Her store is basically an extension of what's in her closet including styles that are fun, whimsical, cute and sexy. The vibe is comfortable and friendly. Merchandise is displayed on handmade metal shelves with an industrial aesthetic. A local artist painted the still life with shoe behind the counter. A long brown leather ottoman in the center of a mod brown and orange carpet beckons customers to have a seat and start having a ball trying on shoes.
Walsh has brought in affordable shoes like the funky Miz Mooz brand ($76-$80) as well as upscale lines such as Nanette Lepore and Theory for up to $400. "Everyone has their freak-out price point for shoes, and that's mine," says Walsh. "After all, you're going to wear them in the street and the dirt." Good point. Since opening in November, Walsh has continued to refine her selection to meet the needs of the neighborhood as well as her personal needs of what she loves, like Glory Chen and Maloles. Among the noteworthy jewelry and accessories available are bags made from bolts of vintage auto upholstery by Los Angeles designer Kim White. For example, a startling plaid intended for a '79 GM car became a $388 oversized tote.
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KATHY SCHULTZ
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Walsh also supports local talent. She carries sterling silver stacking bracelets from Francesca and Brandy, edgy hoop earrings by Swaan Miller, and belts and buckles from Steel Toe Studios. Handbags include Crystalyn Kae's roomy glazed fabric pleated totes, shoulder bags and clutches made of industrial leather scraps from Chemical Wedding, and Portlander Maya Moon's brass studded handbags in scrumptious colored leather.
Spring designs are trickling in – don't miss the arrival of the French line Maloles in early February. You'll want to beat feet to the shop when the all-too-adorable brown and white polka dot wedges ($288) hit the shelves. A black fabric, peep-toe wedge could very well be your go-to shoe for spring and summer ($268). Then there's the inexpensive high-fashion recycled plastic shoes by Melissa ($48 a pair). They are breathable and scented (think '80s lip-gloss scents such as strawberry).
Since we're still in the throes of winter, head over the bridge now for savings of 10 to 50 percent on all winter shoes and boots through January.
Kathy Schultz is a Seattle-based free-lance writer. If you have a shop, sale, event or great product tip you'd like to share, E-mail seattleshopping@nwsource.com.
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