Find fashions rooted in quality and tradition at Polite Society

In the context of Eric Akines' new boutique on First Avenue, the term "polite society" refers to the quality and tradition of first rate goods. Indeed, that's what you'll find here among the urban decor of canted steel girders, artsy columns and walls stamped with ants to form repetitive patterns. Akines has amassed a wealth of fashion-forward clothing and accessories for men and women, as well as antique and modern home furnishings from around the world.

The shop focuses on small, independent designers with impressive credentials. Many cut their threads at fashion houses such as Stella McCartney, Y-3 and Chanel. Akines' goal is to bring Seattleites trendy, yet wearable fashions that are unavailable elsewhere in the Northwest. For example, he carries Londoner Jenny Packham, who makes very British, very mod '60s dresses a la Marianne Faithful ($1,800). An aside: Packham is outfitting the new James Bond girl.

The creative proprietor merged his extensive retail ties, artistic sensibilities and business savvy into his progressive shop. "I wanted to create a unique shopping environment and have people experience a concept or a brand rather than just shopping for apparel or furniture." Goods typically have traditional and sophisticated designs but feature modern details. Akines can tell you all about the details, from the metallic thread in a suit created by Parisian designer Afshin Feiz to the fact that Feiz went to Reed College in Oregon.

Many lines are rooted in tradition or are historically influenced. Repetto is the original maker of ballet shoes and all of the brand's contemporary styles are based on that design. Current styles have the same slipper-like comfort but sport dance-ready heels, perfect for the samba or tango ($125 - $250). The French tea from Paris is sold in hand-painted tins that have been manufactured in the same factory for more than 100 years. You'll also find hand-picked jewelry such as a pendant featuring a small 17th century painting of a saint and Portuguese bracelets from the '30s and '40s. "I look for rare little curiosities and unusual things," says Akines.

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