Seattle Sunday: The Hip Modernist Quilter: Jonathan Armstrong

As you can imagine, I get pretty excited when I make a new discovery. Whether it's a new retailer, a great deal or an unusual pairing, I can't wait to shout it from the rooftops.

Ever since I met Jonathan Armstrong, a local web developer, very stylish man, deep thinker and skilled maker, I've been sharing his story. And people love it. So, it's only fair that I share it with you, Dear Reader.

Jonathan sews quilts by hand. And they are unbelievable. Fortunately for me, he has one on display at Ludlow in Phinney Ridge. (That place is so incredible, it warrants an additional post of its own. Keep your eyes peeled in the coming weeks.)

We recently caught up with Jonathan at Ludlow to hear his thoughts on style, quilting and the power of making things by hand. Enjoy!

Menswear, Seattle SundaymelliciaAugust 10, 2014 Comments

The Plus size Coordinating Set- Not just sweaters anymore

Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. This time, she teamed up with Poplin Style Direction Intern, Ellie Emoto to bring you up to speed on this summer's Must Have. This week's Poplin newsletter includes Ellie's take on the LWD for straight sizes and Jordan's perspective for plus size women is below. If you aren't receiving the newsletter, make sure to sign up!

Also, did you know that Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Reader,

Although I usually try and stay away from flash trends, opting instead for more classic pieces, sometimes I get roped in. I struggled against the coordinating set but then finally gave in to the matchy matchy patterned sets that felt fun and funky. Well, my jumping into this trend was my best fashion decision of the past six months. After acquiring a matching monochrome patterned sweater and skirt set I found a dozen ways to wear each piece separately, and another dozen ways to wear them together with various accessories and shoes. Even better, I felt powerful, stunning and oh so cool every time I put them on together.

So I want to share that feeling with you. I've found some coordinating sets or co-ords that align with some keywords; making this trend accessible no matter what you are seeking to communicate.

Co-ords

The Secret to Beautiful Hair: Connect with your Hairdresser on LinkedIn

Apparently, life goes on whether I'm there or not. And, I expect I'm not the only one.

Last weekend, my son and I ran into Brenda, the lovely woman who flawlessly colored my hair for years. She was also Kim Jong Il for Halloween one year, which is amazing. Needless to say, I'm very fond of her.

When I became pregnant, I took a hiatus from coloring my hair. It was intended to be temporary. But, when I learned of the cost of child care, I discovered that brown hair was just fine. Well, fine for at least 6 months, anyway.

The last time I had spoken to Brenda, she and her husband were hoping to have a baby. When I was ready to start coloring my hair again, she was gone.

And it happens to so many of us. For whatever reason, we aren't in the know when our favorite esthetician, massage therapist, hair dresser, tailor, insert essential life supporting service here, person moves on. Even worse, we can never find them again. Therefore, I propose this:

Connect with Your Life Changing (Insert Occupation Here) via LinkedIn

Menswear, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaJuly 31, 2014Comment

The One Piece that Saves You Money & Heartache

How many times have you put the final touches on your outfit only to discover that your shoes don't match your jewelry? Or, the buttons on your coat are gold while the buckle on your shoes is silver? Perhaps your wedding ring is white gold but you really want to wear your new yellow gold bracelet?

I would venture to say more than once.

A client sent me a text the other day asking about this issue and how to solve it.

Is it a Fashion Faux Paux to Wear Gold with Silver?

Seattle Sunday comes early: I went KitchenSurfing and so Should YOU

In all of our lives, there is a pivotal moment when we officially move up in the world. Well, officially to ourselves, anyway. When we graduate from generic ice cream to Dryers and then to Ben and Jerry's and beyond. Or when we buy our first items at full price from a boutique or perhaps our very first designer purchase (even if it is at the Rack).

Once you've crossed the threshold, everything changes. Suddenly, you wouldn't consider glancing at generic anymore. And shopping at a boutique becomes a regular occurrence. If you have yet to make any of these leaps (hello college), don't worry. You will. But, if you have moved beyond level one and even level two in the game of life, I have something for you: Kitchensurfing.

Just over a week ago, Kitchensurfing launched in Seattle. It's already established in larger cities and thank goodness it finally arrived at our foodie mecca. The concept is simple: a chef prepares a meal for you and your guests at your house AND cleans up afterward. Yes, that's what I said.

A few weeks ago, we hosted a Kitchensurfing dinner party. Our very generous friends, Steve and Lauren, offered to share their home with a group of friends to try it out. Our conclusion? Kitchensurfing: It's a must have.

Four Reasons Your Next Adventure MUST Include Kitchensurfing

Summer Staple: LWD

Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. This time, she teamed up with Poplin Style Direction Intern, Ellie Emoto to bring you up to speed on this summer's Must Have. This week's Poplin newsletter includes Ellie's take on the LWD for straight sizes and Jordan's perspective for plus size women is below. If you aren't receiving the newsletter, make sure to sign up!

Also, did you know that Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Readers,

As we hit the warmest time of the year, with long sunsets and backyard parties, you may find your social schedule filling up. It's easy and necessary to have a piece that can go from cocktail mixers to bridal showers and then to visit in-laws. In the colder months an easy piece to pull on and go is the LBD: The Little Black Dress. A seemingly universal dress that is easily changed with accessories or layers, this staple is given a summer update in white.

As follows are some great choices to flatter different figures, and make your summer dressing easy as 1,2,3.

LWD for the Plus Sized Woman

Feeling Overwhelmed? Life Just Got a Little Easier

I've said it before, we all have a little Seasonal Affective Disorder in us. If for no other reason, but because our calendars are on hyper drive this time of year. Every day has a zillion commitments and even though the days are technically longer, we still can't do it all. So, if this time of year has brought you a feeling of overwhelm, you are not alone. I thought you might enjoy some streamlining from your very own personal stylist.

Here we go!

5 Ways to Take Control of Your Style

body image, Style Tips, Women's fashionmelliciaJuly 23, 2014Comment

Seattle Sunday: Jill Griffin Handmade Jewelry

Over the last few weeks, I've had a number of clients use words like, "earthy," and "natural" when describing their personal styles. You, Dear Reader, know how essential style keywords can be. Along with the do's and don'ts for your body type, style keywords can help you ensure that your clothes are communicating exactly what you want them to.

Lucky for me, the lovely and talented Jill Griffin was just a click away to empower me to offer up locally hand made jewelry for the earthier set of my client base. I met Jill last year when one of my clients hosted a trunk show for her. (I went home with a black leather cuff.)

And, because I think of you, Dear Reader, as my virtual client, I wanted to make sure I share her pieces (and the client discount) with you.

What You Need to Know Now About Jill Griffin Jewelry

Normcore. I've been Trying to Avoid it, but.....

A number of months ago I started hearing about Normcore. Chatter on the inter web turned into real media attention and an official trend. We can thank the good people at New York Magazine (one of my VERY favorite mags, by the way) for updating the rest of us earlier this year. Opening up the newest issue of Lucky today, I see that Normcore is now a topic for Main Stream America.

With that in mind, I feel obligated to give this trend some attention, though, truthfully, I'd prefer to give it as little attention as possible. However, my first obligation is to you, Dear Reader, so it's important that you can discuss Normcore at a dinner party or the office and sound like you know what you are talking about.

Seattle Sunday Winner: The Chambray Bowtie from Winslow

Sure, the bow tie takes a certain type of person to pull off. But, I'd venture to say that when you (or your fella) take the plunge, all parties involved will be glad you did. The key is styling. Before we get to that, let's make sure you know who won. Was it you?

What to Wear with a Bowtie. Go!

Menswear, Style TipsmelliciaJuly 14, 2014Comment

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is Here. Do You Know the Fall Runway Trends?

Who doesn't love the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? For the unindoctrinated, Anniversary (as the groupies call it) gives Nordstrom cardholders the chance to shop the fall trends now. Even better, they are on sale.

Yes! They go on sale now, then up to full price after the sale. And few things are as painful as watching something you saw on sale go up to full price... unless, of course, YOU bought it for the lower price.

Nordstrom card holders get early access to the sale July 10th- 17th. That's today! Don't have a card, you can still get one:)

I find that the most challenging thing about Anniversary is facing the concept that summer will eventually end. That makes it tough to shop for cold weather clothes. Plus, you've got to start thinking about fall trends to buy those pieces that you will undoubtedly yearn for come October. With that in mind, here's a guide to fall runway trends that you can shop for now and ensure you are comfortable and cool in the Northwest Winter weather.

If you aren't a card holder, you can see (and buy!) the Anniversary deals after July 18th.

Fall Trends, Nordstrom Anniversary Sale & YOU.

Summer Wedding Breakdown

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. This time, I've added in options from Rent the Runway so you can rent a dress to save you a little cash. We've included straight size and plus size examples. The strategies are the same. And, Rent the Runway now includes plus size options. Huzzah!

Did you know that Jordan's research on Sizeism was recently featured in an article in the Everett Herald? Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Reader,

As a warm summer approaches so does the up-swing in summer wedding invitations. It can be a bit of a struggle to find the right thing to wear for each type of wedding, so I have created a breakdown of different types of wedding attire requirements and my suggestions for each. As you know, it's important to be appropriately dressed for the occasion without becoming overheated in the warm weather. Don't worry! I'm on it.

Hemptastic: More than Just Legal Marijuana

Whether you read local or national news, you're undoubtedly hearing about today's milestone: Washington's first legal marijuana shops opened this morning. Clearly, the only way, well, one way, to celebrate this momentous occasion is to dress the part. After all, we are the Evergreen State.

With that in mind, here are some fun facts about Hemp and Fashion.

My Love Affair with SoleStruck. Because Ugly Shoes ARE a Global Issue

Dear Reader,

I have a confession to make: I am unabashedly SoleStruck.

Months ago, the good people at DIGS Showroom in Ballard held an event featuring Portland brand SoleStruck. Not only did I have a lovely time, leave with an incredible swag bag that just keeps on giving (thank you, DIGS!); but I also bought a pair of edgy and functional heels. Thrilled, we went home. By the next day I was a proud winner of a free pair of shoes from SoleStruck. Woot!

And so it began.

My Love Affair with SoleStruck.

The Stunning Plus Size Summer Bride

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. Jordan's research on Sizeism was just featured in an article in the Everett Herald. Check it out!Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Reader,

This month one of my dear friends got engaged, and it got me thinking about bridal gowns and weddings. She is a magnificent woman and I caught a bit of the wedding bug! So, curled up with a morning cup of tea I lazily scrolled through the wedding tag on Pinterest and Tumblr and got little butterflies of happiness for her. Though talking with a good friend later the same day I reflected that I hadn't seen any plus size brides on the main tag of Pinterest, and very few on Tumblr. I know these brides are out there, so I was confused and sort of hurt. I reached out to one of my friends who is a fierce plus size woman who was married two years ago and asked her about her gown search.

Seattle Sunday: Live Simply By Annie Takes Organizing to Another Level

There are two extremes for the fashionista:

The stylish individual who has clothes strewn about her bedroom with extras shoved into her closet.
The stylish individual who has everything methodically organized by size and color with off season items stored away in the appropriate containers.

Most of us fall somewhere in between. And, like having your very own personal stylist, many of us have always secretly yearned for a professional organizer in our lives.

Enter Annie.

Can loungewear be chic? Yes!

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Poplin contributor and plus size fashion guru, Jordan Richardson. Jordan's research on Sizeism was just featured in an article in the Everett Herald. Check it out! Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Dear Reader,

Few things are more gratifying than shedding your work clothes after a long day and putting on something comfortable. While pulling on my trusty old college sweats and a tank I wondered what others wore to hang about...So I went on a quest. I questioned family, friends, and co-workers looking to find what people preferred. I found that most like loose fitting pants that stretched yet still held a shape, and a jersey tank or tee. One gal mentioned that she called this look "lounge-chic." She described it as the balance between comfortable shoes that are easy to move in while maintaining the ability to open the door or run to the grocery store without embarrassment.

So I wanted to see how I could elevate my own lounge wear to "lounge-chic" and naturally, I wanted to share my findings with you. Because Poplin Style Direction focuses on knowing what works best for your body shape (as well as your personal style) I wanted to utilize the body types to help pinpoint some great choices for various body shapes.

Lounge Chic

What's the Difference Between 24 months & 2T?

As you know, Dear Reader, I am a personal stylist for men, women and kids. Although the blog predominantly focuses on women's fashion, I LOVE chatting about kids styles and the perplexities involved.

On a personal note, our three year old envisions a different occupation every day and builds his ensemble accordingly. Frequently, we're adding jersey numbers out of colored masking tape to tees or reflective trim along cuffs for our little fireman out of, you guessed it, masking tape. So, tip #1 for dressing a toddler with a vision: start with masking tape.

I digress.

When our little ones transition from baby to toddler, it can be challenging to navigate the fashion terrain. Here's a trivia question to wow the crowd at your next playdate,

What's the Difference Between 24 Months and 2T When Shopping for Kids Clothes?

3 Experts Take You to the Beach Pt. 2

Part 2 of 2. See part 1 of 2.

Is it weird to refer to yourself as an expert? After reading the tips from Hanna and Annie, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to add a few more beach essentials. My Beach Must Haves for you are below. Normally, I'd also include a wet bag, but Annie is so good! She beat me to it. I'm tempted to write a post with beach must haves for the little ones and the fellas. If that interests you, leave a comment!

Your Beach Essentials

Seattle Sunday: Vintage & Pre-Loved Finds from Citizen Rosebud

I don't know about you, Dear Reader, but my teen years were spent in thrift stores. On the eternal quest to find something that communicated who I was through my clothing and managing to stay within my teenage budget was no easy task. Parenthood has made every minute more valuable and my love of shopping has shifted to brick and mortar stores and online. But, my love of vintage coats will never die. And that is where the Citizen got me.

Citizen Rosebud AKA Bella is a die hard lover of all things vintage. With special love for American-made items, she knows her history through clothes. Each dress, each coat, every pair of shoes has a story and Bella is dying to tell it to you.