Some say that Seattle is a few years behind when it comes to style, catching onto the East Coast's trends late in the game. In my opinion, that's an irrelevant analysis. People in Seattle seem to have a style all their own, distinctly different in ways from other cities that we consider to be "style capitals". The difference I think is in the lifestyle of the typical Seattle resident. They incorporate a lot more outdoor gear into their wardrobe - hiking boots, hiking pants, parkas, things you generally find at REI. And they bike, A LOT. So they have really athletic looking messenger bags. I found myself getting into the fashion of the outdoor lifestyle, as much as the outdoor lifestyle itself.
A couple of boutiques really caught my eye that I thought I would recommend in case anyone heads there in the near future. You absolutely have to go to the REI mega store if you are there, but for the feminine additions, check out:
ALHAMBRA
Downtown, 1st Avenue and Pine St.
This shop was pretty high in price range, but each piece they carry is incredibly unique. I had never heard of Gary Graham, but they carry a lot of his things - simple and provencial dresses, but in luxurious fabrics - as well as Tucker's new line of blouses. The decor at the store is in itself worth the visit - lots of functional rusted iron sculpture. In general, a very wordly and travel inspired collection.
Baby & Co.
Downtown, 1st Avenue and Virginia St.
Baby & Co. is extremely parisienne. Jill Donnelly has had the store since 1973 and travels to Paris every year to buy most everything for the store. Great scarves, great European alternatives to Keds, lots of architectural dresses and trenches. And there is a sweet little Bulldog that hangs out at the front door :)
Jill's business card reads "Baby & Co., Seattle. Mars." which seems a leftover "far out" branding effort from the 70's, but her clothes are nothing if not down to earth and wearable.
Jill is hip. Check out her shoes.
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