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February 15th, 2008
We knew that the lack of sun here in the Pacific Northwest was starting to wear on us, but we didn’t realize how harsh it was on our skin until we saw a picture of ourselves. Against the bright pink of our jacket, our skin didn’t just look pale—it has a sort of sickly green cast to it. We’re thinking that this isn’t something some self-tanner can fix, for fear that orange plus green does not a pretty color make. We even gave the tanning bed a shot, and while it did wonders for our disposition, it kind of just made our skin pink. And the combo of pink and green is only pretty for Lilly Pulitzer. Anyway, we think we’ve found a solution: We’re starting a petition to bring the sun to Seattle. We realize this may not be very popular with all the brooding musicians and artists—you know, the whole “darkness is my muse” deal. But we’re willing to make a few enemies on this one. We need the sun! We crave it! Are you with us? |
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Seattle Picks: |
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| 1 | Shoe-A-Palooza There’s nothing more invigorating than a day of shoe shopping with your best gal pal. Maybe it’s because there are so many options in one area, or because you can be eyeing one pair while trying another pair on—a flaw we find in the “dressing room” scenario. We knew it was a sickness when we took a visiting friend to our favorite shoe store and she was traumatized by the number of shoes we picked up to try on, which turned out to be a modest 12 pairs. So during post-holiday shoe sales, you’re certain to find us spending the weekends in a euphoric state at spots like Edie’s Shoes. We can’t resist the vast selection of stylish urban sneaks mixed with adorable flats, unique boots, and everyday heels. Thanks to Edie’s we saw most of Paris by foot in our Tiger, and received unending compliments on our Biviel heels. You’ll also find a variety of Camper shoes and fashionably affordable options from Seychelles. We were also psyched to find another spot for picking up a Crystalyn Kae vegan handbag. Music to our feet—and hands. Edie’s Shoes319 E Pine St. Seattle, WA 98122 206.839.1111 www.ediesshoes.com |
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| 2 | Welcome to the Junction We have a household budget for art. While we can’t always afford the expensive paintings, we always try to pick up a print or small piece when we spy an artist that we love. As a result, over the years we’ve created a small collection of pieces that reflect our personal style. A new gallery opened in the West Seattle Junction that’s thrillingly packed with many cool new artists. Twilight Artist Collective already has a gallery at the Pike Place Market, and both locations feature unique and innovative pieces that are slightly irreverent and outside the box. With a mission of supporting local artists, the women behind Twilight are committed to making art a part of everyday life. On a recent visit we spied prints of peculiarly awesome old-timey mug-shots painted on paper bags by Chris Crites, street-smart graffiti inspired art by OneSevenNine, a.k.a. Angelina Villalobos, and intriguing photographs by Michelle Smith Lewis. Twilight also features select boutique items like kick-ass handbags by Chemical Wedding as well as coaster and switch-plate covers by Funkylicious. Always interesting and fresh, Twilight Artist Collective colors outside the lines and we love them for it.
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| 3 | Home Suite Home Thanks to dad’s business trips, we grew up staying in nice hotels. Westins, Hiltons—we love ‘em all. And yes, we know we were spoiled, but have pity on us: Today we often have trouble finding hotels that cater to our high standards. Fortunately, we were seriously wowed when we stayed at Woodinville’s Willows Lodge. This handsome lodge shares space with a 2,000-square-foot spa, five acres of stunning gardens and two critically acclaimed restaurants (Barking Frog and the venerable Herb Farm). Did we mention the sweet, old, lobby dog that greeted us? Who would have known that such a charming retreat could be found just miles from the ‘burb we grew up in? We explored the grounds a bit but for most of our stay we hibernated in our room because it was soooo nice. Its handsome style was peppered with luxurious extras: A soaking tub for two, a peaceful private patio, a stone-trimmed fireplace, and a bed so soft and heavenly that we actually slept in! Now that’s something we’d never do at the Holiday Inn. Willows Lodge |
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| Chick Picks: | |||||
| 1 | 1. A Bicycle Built for You It’s been a long time since we rode a bicycle and we’re a little scared. It’s not like our dad is running along behind us anymore, though we’re sure he’d come over if we asked. Our angst is somewhat curbed, however, by the thought of a custom bike from Sweetpea Bicycles. They’re made just for women and built entirely by hand! Yes, patience is required to receive yours, but good things come to those who wait. Especially if your booty needs a custom fit. |
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| 2 | A Purse for the Taking When our sig other’s mom gave us a gift we were a little concerned. Having heard horror stories about zany mother-in-laws we were half expecting to find a beating pig's heart. Luckily we immediately recognized the label of our favorite shoe designer. Awesome! A mother-in-law who appreciates our taste in overpriced shoes! Instantly, we thought of Kai Alise as a thank-you gift for her. This design-your-own-purse studio was created by two clever accessory-obsessed sisters. Design online or throw a DIY house party! Choose from 20 different styles and mix and match fabrics! Genius! |
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| 3 | Night Lights for Grownup Girls When we were little, we wouldn’t dare fall asleep without our Glo Worm in our arms and our giraffe nightlight plugged into the wall. We’ve since graduated from days of no-darkness-allowed, and now nightlights have as well. Light Affection will transform your favorite photo into a nightlight print with a stylish black frame. They also make custom standup prints. Now if only they could bring the Glo Worm back in vogue... |
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| Cocktail of the Week: | |||||
We aren’t history buffs but McCormick & Schmick's Great American Cocktails menu is one history lesson we can’t get enough of. To celebrate 200 years of American cocktails, the menu takes us from the Golden Years, through Prohibition, then to Modern creations. While we appreciate the classics, our favorite was a delicious Modern Basil Grape Refresher. Summer may still be months away, but until then this juicy little number is as good as it gets! 8 White Grapes (3 for garnish) Add 5 grapes and 2 large basil sprigs to cocktail shaker and hand muddle. Add the remaining ingredients and fill glass with ice. Shake vigorously for 5 seconds. Strain over fresh ice into cocktail glass then garnish with remaining grapes and basil. Enjoy! |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Take a Giant Step Toward a Passionate Life |
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| 2 | Final Blast of Winter We can’t wait for winter to be over, but we’re all about cleaning up at Shoefly’s winter sale—the last day is Sunday! Take an additional 40 percent off merchandise storewide. Shoes always make us happy … even when the weather doesn’t. What: Shoefly’s Final Winter Blast |
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| 3 | Speaking of Shoes There’s still time to check out great deals on closeout shoes and get 20 percent off new arrivals at Clementine. And if you bring in any gently used pair of shoes, you’ll get an extra 10 percent off any item in the shop all month long! Shoes will be donated to Seattle Dress for Success. What: Clementine’s “I Heart Shoes” Sale |
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| 4 | Want to Help Nawlins? Tini Bigs is holding “Hands-On New Orleans Night” to introduce you to local relief-effort members and to tell you how you can help. The “Hands-On Tini” will be the featured cocktail of the evening, and $2 from every cocktail sold in February will be donated to Seattle Works. In addition, $5 from the sale of every “Tini Bigs BIG Martinis” recipe book will be donated to the cause. What: Seattle Works Hands-On New Orleans Night |
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| 5 | SHOP/08: A Conference for Independents SHOP/08 marks its second year for this one-day conference designed to support independent business owners. Business owners will learn practical skills, receive valuable encouragement, and build camaraderie among other independent businesses. Prepare to be inspired! What: SHOP/08 Seattle |
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The caucusing may be done, but don’t forget to get out there and rock the vote on Feb. 19 at the Washington primary! Peace out, ladies. |
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