Get Hydrated Skin this Winter with Olay Winter Skin Challenge

Friday, December 22, 2017

Get Hydrated Skin this Winter with Olay Winter Skin Challenge
Get Hydrated Skin this Winter with Olay Winter Skin Challenge

It is officially winter this week, and as the temperatures drop in Seattle, I am already feeling those harsh effects of this season on my skin. As much as I love the holiday season, my skin is definitely prone to a bout of uncomfortable dryness at this time of year. Pretty much as soon as the heat is turned on full time indoors, my face, hands, feet and skin start to dry out. Ugh, dry skin on face. Sound familiar?

To combat dry itchy skin this winter, I am taking part in the Olay Winter Skin Challenge and you're invited to join me! Olay Moisture Ribbons Plus' rich moisturizing formula helps you overcome the harsh effects of winter. With immediate moisturizing effects, you can use Olay Moisture Ribbons Plus just once for softer and more moisturized skin that feels and looks great! Super easy skin care!

Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas from Bartell Drugs

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Thank you Bartell Drugs for partnering on this post and and graciously providing a shopping excursion to my local Bartell Drugs to shop for holiday gifts from the Bartell Drugs Holiday Gift Guide!


Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas from Bartell Drugs

Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas from Bartell Drugs

There are just a few days left until Christmas and if you're like me, you're doing some last minute holiday shopping! Bartell Drugs, with 65 locations throughout the Seattle area, is the perfect place for finding last minute gifts for anyone on your list.

Each Bartell Drugs store has it's own distinctive neighborhood character and a commitment to carrying products from local brands and businesses. With roots in the Pacific Northwest since 1890, my family have been shopping at Bartell Drugs during the holidays for generations; I love that I get to continue that tradition and shop local!

How to Dress in Layers for Winter

Monday, December 11, 2017

Disclosure: Affiliate links are occasionally used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Items gifted and sent for editorial consideration are marked c/o. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! 

How to Dress in Layers for Winter

Who What Wear Collection Quilted Velvet Bomber Jacket | Target A New Day Watercolor Kimono | Siizu Sunna Silk Peplum Top c/o | Aritzia Wilfred Free Daria Pant (also similar) | Timex Metropolitan Watch c/o | Clare V Foldover Clutch c\o Farfetch (sold out, similar) | Madewell Alice Sandal (on sale!) | Cole Haan Aviator Sunglasses

While not officially winter on the calendar yet, the temperatures outside in Seattle have been steadily dropping and that cold winter chill is definitely in the air. As temperatures drop, layers become an absolute essential for dressing and braving the cold in the Pacific Northwest.

This winter season I am looking to a variety of fabrics and textures to add variety when dressing in layers, so as not to fall into the winter dressing doldrums I find myself in every year. I'm particularly loving layers of faux leather, velvet, and silky fabrics to get me through until Spring.

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Photography: Karya Schanilec Photography

Your Closet BFF: A History of the Little Black Dress

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Disclosure: Affiliate links are occasionally used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! 
 
Your Closet BFF: A History of The Little Black Dress

Your Closet BFF: A History of The Little Black Dress

Who What Wear Collection Fit & Flare Little Black Dress | Marc Jacobs Sunglasses (sold out, similar) | Who What Wear Collection Ring Handle Bag (sold out, similar / similar) | Target Merona Margo Pearl Slide Sandals

Whenever I am in doubt on what to wear to a holiday party, family gathering or night on the town, my go to is almost always the Little Black Dress (LBD). It is that essential wardrobe item I can always count on and feel confident in. I like to believe the LBD will take me anywhere!

Just throw on a jacket and pair of heels, grab a clutch and you're party ready! Or dress down with a pair of sneakers and an oversized cardigan sweater for an afternoon with friends. The LBD makes the perfect traveling companion and more often than not at least one will end up in my suitcase as my jetset partner. The Little Black Dress truly is my closet BFF!

However, it is the story of the LBD that really catches my attention. This simple garment does not have so much a simple history. Similar to that of denim, it is a tale of the wealthy appropriating the clothing of the working class and poor.

In October 1926 American Vogue Magazine featured a sketch of a Chanel design for a long sleeve, calf length, black sheath dress and predicted the dress would become a uniform for "women of taste." They called the little black dress a "Chanel Ford," simple with potential for enormous and great success, and named after the era's democratic black model-t automobile.

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Photography: Karya Schanilec Photography

Gifting for the Holidays: Sparkle with Blue Nile Jewelry

Friday, November 24, 2017

Thank you Blue Nile for sponsoring this post!  

Gifting for the Holidays: Sparkle with Blue Nile Jewelry

Gifting for the Holidays: Sparkle with Blue Nile Jewelry

Still contemplating the perfect holiday gift for a loved one? Or perhaps thinking about treating yourself this holiday season? Blue Nile will make any and all occasions merry & bright! Jewelry is truly the perfect gift. With sentimental and sparkle going hand in hand, you'll shine for anyone so lucky to receive such such a present!

The Blue Nile Petite Emerald Floral Stud Earrings are just asking to be wrapped up and placed under the tree or in a stocking. Delicate in design with vintage details, they are a timeless classic waiting to be worn to holiday parties and après ski.  A beautiful round emerald gemstone (my birthstone!) is surrounded by a sparkling micropavĂ© diamond frame, all crafted in 14k yellow gold. Simply stunning.

Gifting for the Holidays: Sparkle with Blue Nile Jewelry
Blue Nile Petite Emerald Floral Stud Earrings c/o 

I plan to wear my Blue Nile Petite Emerald Floral Stud Earrings c/o to my husband's company holiday party in a few weeks and just know they will style perfectly with the little black dress and faux fur wrap I plan to wear. Holiday party ready!

AYR Makes Seriously Great Fitting Jeans

Thursday, November 16, 2017


Disclosure: Affiliate links are occasionally used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Products gifted are marked c/o. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress!  All thoughts are my own!

AYR Makes Seriously Great Fitting Jeans

AYR Hi-Rise Skinny Jean in Jet Black c/o | Ulla Johnson Sweater (sold out, similar) | Mar Y Sol Trio Open-Top Shoulder Bag c/o Saks OFF 5TH | Saks Fifth Avenue Denim Sandals c/o Saks OFF 5TH (sold out, similar) | Marc Jacobs Sunglasses (sold out, similar)

Ever struggle with the idea that the perfect fitting pair of jeans even exists? Up until now that has been my daily grind too! I seriously contemplated if denim existed that didn't give you a wedgie or squish your tummy to an uncomfortable level of "I'm never eating again"; that perhaps jeans that lasted longer than 5 minutes without fading and stretching were in fact just a made up evil of pure genius by the denim manufacturers to keep us searching. Well my mind has been changed!

AYR (which stands for All Year Round) makes seriously great fitting jeans! They do in fact exist! "Best-fitting jeans ever" according to Refinery 29 and I couldn't agree more.

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Photography: Karya Schanilec

Olay 28 Day Challenge: An Easy Skincare Routine with Proven Results

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Thank you Olay for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own!

Olay 28 Day Challenge: An Easy Skincare Routine with Proven Results

If you follow me on Instagram, than you might know that just about a month ago I started the Olay 28 Day Challenge. As someone who is starting to notice a few more smile lines, dark circles under my eyes and all those beginning signs of stress and aging, I jumped at the chance to try an easy-to-follow daily skincare routine with proven results! Plus, my skin was in need of some major love after a year of wedding planning (where pretty much every routine flew out the window . . .).

Since beginning the challenge, I’ve been using the Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream and Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream daily, which have been clinically proven to make skin look younger in 28 days. As someone with super sensitive skin, I have to admit I was a bit hesitant, but after Day 1 I was already seeing results! Halfway through the challenge, my skin was feeling smoother, plumper, more hydrated, and I noticed my fine lines were a bit softer. 

Radical Transparency with Everlane

Monday, October 30, 2017

Thank you Everlane for partnering on this post! Affiliate links are used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! Products gifted are marked c/o.  All thoughts are my own!

Radical Transparency with Everlane
Everlane Japanese GoWeave Long Slip Dress c/o | Everlane Relaxed Silk Shirt c/o | Everlane The Street Sandal c/o | Target Straw Hat Fedora (sold out, similar) | Clare V. Flat Clutch c/o | House of Swanke Citrine and One Dot Horn Bangles (sold out, similar) | Marc Jacobs Sunglasses (sold out, similar)

While I was living in the San Francisco Bay Area, prior to Seattle, I stumbled upon the brand Everlane. Immediately I knew this was a brand to watch and that they were doing something pretty cool and pretty different through a concept called radical transparency: ethical factories, exceptional quality and affordable prices.

With my educational and professional background in environmental studies and social work, I am deeply committed to shopping sustainably and ethically. I was so happy to have finally found a brand that matched my values.

At Everlane they want the the right choice to be as easy as putting on a great t-shirt. That's why they partner with the best, ethical factories around the world, source only the finest ingredients and share the product story with you, including the true cost of every product made. It's a new way of doing things and they call it radical transparency. I say, finally!

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Photography: Karya Schanilec 

Radical Transparency with Everlane

Warby Parker Capitol Hill Seattle Store Grand Opening

Friday, October 13, 2017

Warby Parker Capitol Hill Seattle Store Grand Opening

Welcome Warby Parker to Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood! On Saturday, October 14 the doors of Warby Parker's third store here in Seattle will open, joining Warby Parker Writer’s Block in Fremont and the University Village location and you're invited to the Grand Opening (details below)!

At the new Capitol Hill location, you'll find wooden shelving and full-length mirrors, as well as custom artwork of some seriously colorful critters from the award-winning, Seattle-based studio Invisible Creature (I hear it makes an excellent selfie backdrop!).

To celebrate the new space, Warby Parker will be stocking the store with their Topper sunglasses in Jet Black Matte with Flash Mirrored Silver lenses. These rounded frames are inflected with a few dashing angles and exclusive to the Capitol Hill store. 

Other items available at the new store will include books sourced from some of Warby Parker's favorite independent publishers like McSweeney’s, New Directions, and n+1. You’ll also spot Warby Parker's own title published by Hachette Books, 50 Ways to Lose Your Glasses. 

A few of my current favorite Warby Parker Frames:


The 6 Best Pieces of Advice We Received Before Our Wedding

Monday, October 2, 2017

The 6 Best Pieces of Advice We Received Before Our Wedding

The 6 Best Pieces of Advice We Received Before Our Wedding

From the moment you announced your engagement until right up to your big day, does it seem as if everyone has the best words of advice, pearls of wisdom and suggestions for your wedding? This definitely rang true for S and I. And while most of the advice we received was only in good nature and only with the best of intentions, it was definitely a bit overwhelming at times.

However, some of the advice we received was actually really good and I'm so glad we listened! Today I'm sharing the 6 Best Pieces of Advice We Received Before Our Wedding. Also these are the rest of our engagement photos I promised (wedding photos coming soon!).

Photography: Studio Underground

Mindfully Made, Sustainable Clothing with prAna

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Thank you prAna for sponsoring this post.

Mindfully Made, Sustainable Clothing with prAna
prAna Rockaway Jacket c/o | prAna Ryley Crop c/o 

Something you might not know about me is that I spent my early 20's leading outdoor adventure trips in California, the Pacific Northwest and along the East Coast. During my summer's in college and shortly thereafter I lead kayaking, sailing, hiking, canoeing, biking and backpacking trips for teens and I absolutely loved it!

Spending time in nature and up to a month on a trip at a time with limited access to laundry, I came to understand the importance of well made clothing that would withstand all the outdoor adventures and travel. I sought out clothing that had little impact on our planet to protect the natural world I was playing in. And clothing that would not only be perfect for playing hard, but would also look good on the street and in the yoga studio on my off duty days.  During this time I discovered prAna.

While I no longer take groups of teens sailing or hiking for weeks at a time, I still depend on prAna for both playing (not quite as hard as I used to) outdoors and for my off-duty time on the street, at the yoga studio and at home. The prAna Rockaway Jacket and Ryley Crop were perfect for my recent outing for coffee and groceries in Burien after a stop at the park for a short walk and mindful meditation.

How to Wear Red: This Bold, Flattering and Exciting Neutral is So On Trend

Friday, September 15, 2017

How to Wear Red: This Bold, Flattering and Exciting Neutral is so on Trend

How to Wear Red: This Bold, Flattering and Exciting Neutral is so on Trend
Cop. Copine U.S. Manga Top c/o | Jag Jeans Sheridan Distressed Skinny Jeans c/o | IZIPIZI #SUN NAUTIC White Sunglasses c/o | Minor History Half Moon Double Sided Tote c/o | Banana Republic Black Pumps (sold out, similar) | Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield Watch c/o

End of summer days call for bright pops of color and neutrals, fashionable sunglasses, vintage wash ripped jeans and a fun bag to fit all the day's needs. As the weather slowly (quickly?) shifts to perfect denim days and light breezes from off the sound, I find myself wanting to soak in all the last of the Seattle summer sunshine I can get.

I am generally not one to wear red or loud tops, but there's just something about these end of summer days that have me gravitating towards clothing items that are just a bit louder, just a bit wilder and just a bit brighter before fall kicks in.  Some even consider red a neutral, making red the perfect bold, flattering and exciting shade to wear for end of summer days.

A recent afternoon found me strolling through Seattle wearing my Cop. Copine U.S. Manga Top and favorite Distressed Skinny Jeans, styled with my IZIPIZI #SUN NAUTIC Sunglasses, Minor History Half Moon Double Sided Tote, an-oh-so Classic Watch and go-to Black Pumps.

Photography: Studio Underground

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A Celebration of Craftsmanship with The Frye Company

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

Thank you to The Frye Company for partnering on this post! Affiliate links are used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! Products sent for consideration & items gifted are marked c/o.  All thoughts are my own!

A Celebration of Craftsmanship with The Frye Company

A Celebration of Craftsmanship with The Frye Company
Frye Harness 12R Boots c/o | Petit Bateau Vest Top | Madewell et SÉZANE Sweater (sold out, similar) | Levi's Denim Shorts (DIY, similar) |  Moorea Seal Morley Hat c/o | Orcas Island Homegrown Market Tote (similar)

Seattle! You're invited to a Celebration of Craftsmanship with The Frye Company at the new Frye Company store in University Village this Thursday! Meet the makers, enjoy live music and celebrate the amazing craftsmanship of our City and Frye Boots on September 14 at The Frye Company Seattle!

Frye Company boots have long found a place in my closet; a vintage pair of 1970s Frye cowboy boots were my first official ebay purchase and a beloved pair of Frye platform sandals have danced at multiple summer weddings leaving not a single blister. Both pairs are still in my closet and only continue to get better with age.

The Harness 12R Boots c/o The Frye Company are my most recent Frye addition to my closet and I just adore! For a recent run to the local coffee shop I styled my new boots with my favorite pair of DIY vintage Levi's denim shorts, a Petit Bateau classic tank, Madewell et SÉZANE sweater for the slight end-of summer breeze in the air and the Morley Hat c/o Moorea Seal to hide that messy morning hair.

My new Frye Harness Boots (c/o) are also perfect for fall and styling with skinny denim and oversized sweaters as the weather changes. Made in the USA, nothing says American Crafstmanship better than the Frye Harness Boot. Inspired by the Civil War cavalry, this iconic boot is uncompromising and truly only gets better with age. Hello fabulous new addition to my closet!
 
Frye boots and leather goods are well made and meant to last years. Since 1863, this distinctly all-American boot company has been making boots and nurturing artisans. History and heritage go into every single stitch of boots, shoes and bags that soon become heirlooms and passed down treasures. These iconic leather goods consist of only the best in materials, craftsmanship and design ensuring timeless style and unparalleled quality.

Everyone has a Frye Story ~ from the campus boot in college to the vintage cowboy boot found at a thrift store. What's yours?!

Scroll down for all the details and to RSVP for the FRYE Celebration of Seattle Craftsmanship Event on Thursday September 14, 2017! Hope to see you there!

xoxo

Photography by Jenn Haskins of HelloRigby

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You're Invited! Wedding Wire x SoulCycle Bride Ride & Groom Grind

Wednesday, September 6, 2017



Thank you Wedding Wire for sponsoring this post and partnering on the Bride Ride & Groom Grind! Wedding Wire is the easiest way to find local wedding venues, cakes, dresses, invitations & more. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! All thoughts, as always, are my own! 


Exhausted from wedding planning? Want to sweat out the stress and tension? Me too! I've partnered with Wedding Wire to co-host a SoulCycle Bride Ride and Groom Grind with Kate of All Things Kate and you're invited! I'm practicing my cycling skills while on our mini-moon on Whidbey Island and can't wait tap it back with a Signature SoulCycle ride this weekend!

Here's all the details:

What To Include In Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Disclosure: Affiliate links are used throughout this blog. This post contains paid placement. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! All thoughts and opinions are my own!

What To Include In Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit

With less than a week until our wedding, S and I are crossing our final T's and dotting our final I's in preparation for our Big Day! Our endless to-do list is beginning to shrink down to just a few last items to take care of and friends and family are starting to arrive in Seattle! We are down to the nitty gritty details and beginning to pack up everything we might need to get hitched, including the oh-so-important Wedding Day Emergency Kit.

If you've ever been a bride or bridesmaid it's likely you're familiar with the Wedding Day Emergency Kit. This kit contains all those just-in-case items needed to avoid mishaps and make sure your dream wedding goes off perfectly! Kept close at hand in the bridal prep area and throughout the ceremony and reception, these lifesavers make sure you're ready to handle anything.

I recommend packing up the kit in a tote bag, tackle box or the Sterilite Stack & Carry Tray Organizer Storage Tote (which is what I'm using). If you're not the DIY type or too busy wedding planning (seriously, I get it!), the Sheemergency Kit for Brides by Pinch Provisions is a great option. Priced at less than $40 with 50 travel size products, this kit is ready for any emergency and also perfect for packing for your honeymoon!

If you're more of the minimalist and interested in a mini kit with just the absolute must have essentials for mishaps, Wedding Wire recommends 7 Things You Actually Need in Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit. It's also perfect as a starter kit and you can create the rest of your kit with exactly what will meet your unique needs.

However since I'm one that tends towards the better-safe-than-sorry, a Wedding Day Emergency Kit with all the essentials is a must-have for me. I've listed below everything I'm including in my kit. Because as much as I've spent the last 12 months preparing and creating a perfect day-of itinerary, I know that hiccups are bound to happen.

~ What To Include In Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit ~

What To Include In Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Happy National Thrift Shop Day! 5 Items I Always Look For When Thrifting

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Thank you Value Village for partnering on this post and graciously coordinating a shopping excursion to my local Value Village to score some finds in honor of National Thrift Store Day! Affiliate links are used throughout this blog. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! All opinions are my own!

Happy National Thrift Store Day! 5 Items I Always Look For When Thrifting

Happy National Thrift Store Day! 5 Items I Always Look For When Thrifting
Aritzia Wilfred Top thrifted! | APC Denim Cutoff Shorts (DIY, similar) thrifted! | Jimmy Choo Kitten Heel Pump thrifted! | Moorea Seal Anniversary Tote c/o | Cole Haan Aviator Sunglasses | BZR Amethyst Sunglasses | Target Faux Fur Jacket (similar) thrifted!

Happy National Thrift Shop Day! I've long loved the thrill of visiting a thrift store and finding that "unicorn" item. Most of my outfits typically include at least one thrifted item and on many days my entire outfit is thrifted (recent outfits featuring thrifted items: here, here here and here)!

Since my early childhood days of thrifting at the local island thrift shop with my Mom to the discovery of Value Village as a teenager and all the Abercrombie and J.Crew I could fill my cart with (at a fraction of the cost compared to the Abercrombie at the mall on my measly summer camp counselor salary), I have always loved to thrift for not only the economical reasons, but also the environmental, fashionable and stylish ones!

With nearly 96% of retail items at Value Village priced under $10, shopping secondhand can seriously benefit your closet and bank account. However shopping secondhand also has a huge impact on the planet. It can take 700 gallons of water to make one new cotton t-shirt and the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing each year. Thrifting can help your lower your clothing footprint. (Here are 5 steps to Give a Sh!rt and lower the ecological footprint of your closet.)

In additional to the economical and environmental impacts of thrifting, shopping secondhand also provides unlimited opportunities for creating unique outfits and discovering vintage and designer fashion. Whether it's finding that vintage band tee from the 70s or a designer item from a sold out past collection, there's just nothing like the thrill of the hunt (and the find!) for these treasures. My vintage Bottega Veneta Bag, Chloé sunglasses, vintage Levis, Rag & Bone Boots and favorite vintage Tees are some of my favorite items in my closet, and all are thrifted!

In fact, almost the entire outfit I am wearing in this post is thrifted! That Aritzia Wilfred top? Found at Value Village for $3.99! Those DIY APC denim shorts I'm wearing? Yup, thrifted at Value Village! Jimmy Choo kitten heels? Thrifted! Faux Fur Jacket? Thrifted! I only added a few accessories of sunglasses (both received as gifts) and my Moorea Seal Anniversary Tote c/o. This whole outfit cost less than $100! Seriously, I love thrifting!

In honor of National Thrift Shop Day, I'm heading out to my local Value Village in search of 5 items I'm pretty much always searching for when I visit a thrift store. While I might look in other departments (and I promise to share some of my favorite thrifting tips shortly!), these are the 5 items I always focus on, especially if I'm short on time or feeling overwhelmed with a cluttered secondhand store.

Romping Around Alki Beach in Summer

Friday, August 11, 2017

Disclosure: Affiliate links are used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. This post contains paid placement and products sent for consideration; Items gifted are marked c/o. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! All thoughts, as always, are my own!

Romping Around Alki Beach in Summer

Romping Around on Alki Beach in Summer

7 Charming Sisters necklace c/o (sold out, similar) | Aritzia Jumpsuit (sold out, similar) | mywalit verona backpack c/o | mywalit double flap purse/wallet c/o | Target dv Kenli Perforated Mule Booties | Forever 21 Cardigan Sweater (sold out, similar) | Timex Originals Watch c/o

Alki Beach is one of my favorite spots in our West Seattle neighborhood. Known for the only sandy stretch of beach in Seattle, a boardwalk, and gorgeous views of the Seattle city skyline; it tends towards a California vibe with summer weekend volleyball tournaments, sunset beach bonfires and coastal beach boutiques.

Just around the bend from the main stretch of Alki the crowds dwindle a bit (especially in summer when Alki can get PACKED) and the less crowded path is perfect for a romp, walk or jog. Marination Ma Kai, one of my favorite Seattle restaurants is on this stretch and I highly recommend the sexy tofu tacos or pretty much anything on their menu for some delicious Hawaiian-Korean cuisine. A perfect spot as a break or destination.

For a recent jaunt to Alki Beach I grabbed my favorite and oh-so-comfortable Aritzia jumpsuit from my closet (sold out, similar). I truly believe jumpsuits are the perfect alternative to a dress or any kind of decision related to matching or not matching; just accessorize and you're good to go.

Photography: Studio Underground
Makeup: Marisa Peltier

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Engaged in Seattle

Monday, July 31, 2017

Engaged in Seattle

Engaged in Seattle

Disclosure: This post contains paid placement. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

It's almost the one month countdown until S and I say I DO! I can't believe we've been engaged for almost 11 months and soon we will get to call each other husband and wife! This past Saturday S and I, along with my Dad and Stepmom, headed up to Whidbey Island for our cake tasting, wine tasting and a visit to the farm providing our flowers; seriously such a fun day! As all the details begin to fall into place for our wedding, the love between S and I only continues to grow and we get more and more excited about celebrating with so many of our closest friends and family!

However, with so many things to consider in the planning of our big day it can also get easy to get lost in the details. S and I have made the intention throughout our wedding planning process to have fun, laugh a lot and find small moments to step away from wedding planning and just enjoy being engaged. One of the moments and days we have most enjoyed as an engaged couple was our engagement photo session.

Paying Tribute to Brooks Heritage

Monday, July 17, 2017

Thank you Brooks Running for partnering on this post! Affiliate links are used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! Items gifted are marked c/o. All thoughts, as always, are my own! 


Paying Tribute to Brooks Heritage

Brooks Vanguard Heritage Kicks c/o | Grana Mini V-Neck Silk Dress c/o | Longchamp Small Le Pliage Shoulder Tote | Cole Haan Aviator Sunglasses | Moorea Seal Hat c/o (sold out, similar)

What better way to pay tribute to an iconic Pacific Northwest collection than a visit to the quintessential Seattle Pike Place Market. On a recent summer afternoon I headed to the market in search of fresh flowers, wearing a little black silk dress and retro Brooks Heritage kicks from Brooks Running.

As a runner I have been running in Brooks Running shoes for years. I am a big fan of their running gear for both trail and road runs, which I find to keep me warm and dry on wet and stormy days and cool and protected on hot and sunny days. Seriously so good, one long sleeve shirt from Brooks I've had for over 10 years, has seen hundreds, if not thousands of miles and still looks brand new!

In 2014 Brooks Running launched the Brooks Heritage line to commemorate it's 100 years in business. Brooks Heritage collection celebrated Brooks rich running history with an ode to the classic footwear and retro styles that catapulted us into the running boom of the 70s and beyond. Featuring luxurious materials and detailed craftsmanship, the nine models in three years delivered by Brooks featured remastered sneakers from the 1970's, 1980's and 1990's. As a runner and lover of all things retro (particularly the 70s), I (alongside other retro sneaker fanatics) was immediately in love with this line.

For my afternoon at Pike Place Market in search of flowers I chose the Brooks Heritage Vanguard Sneaker to pair with a little black silk dress, an oh-so-70s floppy hat and a Longchamp Le Pliage Tote I've had for over 10 years that I purchased at an Airport Duty Free when my bag broke mid-flight.

The Brooks Vanguard Heritage Sneaker was originally introduced in 1976 and captures the essence of of the 1970s running boom with clean design lines, classic styling and the iconic T-toe. The signature shoe of the 2014 Brooks Heritage launch, the addition of this shoe to my wardrobe made both myself and my closet happy.

The Brooks Vanguard Heritage Sneaker was thus the perfect choice to pay tribute to Brooks Heritage because after a strong second run, Brooks Heritage styles have headed back into the vault.

“We seized Brooks Running’s centennial as a moment to celebrate the company’s past footwear milestones in a contemporary way. The Brooks Heritage Collection gave us the opportunity to authentically pay tribute to that history and take it to new heights, allowing us to explore design, express our brand and deliver beautifully crafted footwear for the consumer seeking something new. After exploring premium interpretations of Brooks’ most iconic sneakers, we put the Heritage Collection back into the vault having given a nod to Brooks’ past while looking to its future.”
- Shane Downey, Global Director of Heritage

But don't worry, Brooks Running is still around delivering the best in running shoes and gear, they're just putting the Heritage line back in the vault! And remaining Brooks Heritage Collection stock is still available at exclusive retailers and at brooksheritagecollection.com. Grab it quick before it's gone!

xoxo

Photography: Karya Schanilec 

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West Seattle Vibes

Monday, July 10, 2017

Affiliate links are used throughout this blog, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress! This post may contain products sent for consideration; Items gifted are marked c/o. All thoughts, as always, are my own!

West Seattle Vibes

Lindsay Nicholas New York Perfect Dress c/o | Moorea Seal Morley Hat c/o | Who What Wear Collection Shoes (sold out, similar) | Silver and Salt Golden Bar Necklace c/o | Silver and Salt Tri-Color Textured Ring Stack c/o | Cole Haan Aviator Sunglasses | Coach Clutch (vintage, similar) | Target Faux Fur Jacket (sold out, similar)

It's finally feeling like summer in Seattle and I am just loving it! This sunshine has inspired me to seek out all my favorite neighborhood spots and also discover new hidden gems in my neighborhood and city. A recent afternoon had my feet leaving footsteps all over the California junction in the West Seattle neighborhood.

Serious West Seattle vibes.

The "Junction" as locals call it (where California meets Alaska), is the perfect spot for an afternoon of record shopping at Easy Street Records, coffee and croissants at Bakery Nouveau, consignment shopping at boutiques lining California and ice cream at Husky Deli.

As the weather heats up, you will definitely notice me sporting this fabulous little black dress c/o Lindsay Nicholas New York. I am a big fan of the little black dress for sunshine days, accessorizing to match the day and mood. The perfect dress in black by Lindsay Nicholas NY has quickly become a closet favorite.

Lindsay Nicholas New York designs clothing that fit any career, any season and any woman who wants to wear confidence while she takes on the world—then gets up and does it all again the next day.

For this particular afternoon jaunt to the Junction, I paired my Lindsay Nicholas NY LBD with a perfect-for-summer hat from Moorea Seal, vintage Coach clutch I thrifted and my favorite aviator sunglasses. Also making an appearance were a pair of flats from the the Who What Wear collection and some new jewelry c/o of Silver and Salt that I am pretty much wearing all summer long.

Simple and classic, Silver + Salt is jewelry that you can wear everyday. Our jewelry is hand-crafted in Seattle, WA using sterling silver, gold, and semi-precious stones. We use recycled metals and conflict-free, ethically sourced gemstones.

While strolling California, I was also sure not to miss the newly-opened Falafel Salam and you can be sure I took home a box of cupcakes from Cupcake Royale.

What are some of your summer favorites? Seattle neighborhood spots not-to-miss? Favorite summer accessories? Please leave your tips in the comments!

xoxo

Photos: Bailey Makaimo

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How to Use Social Media For Your Wedding

Friday, June 30, 2017

Disclosure: This post contains paid placement. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

How to Use Social Media For Your Wedding
photo credit: Jenn Haskins of Hello Rigby

When do you share about your engagement on Facebook? Should you have a Wedding #hashtag for your big day? Do you want guests sharing your Ceremony live on Instagram? These are just a few of the many questions I've pondered while preparing for our big day and considering how social media may play apart in our wedding festivities.

I've discovered quite a few great tools related to social media that have come in handy during wedding planning, from website builders to hashtag generators to Snapchat geofilters by WeddingWire. These tools have and continue to make planning easier, while also customizing our wedding festivities and keeping our guests informed. However, there's also some wedding etiquette I've had to consider in regards to social media, such as do we allow phones during our ceremony and when to announce the engagement on social media.

Today I'm sharing 10 tips on how to use social media for your wedding, including a few of the things we are planning to do for our wedding in only 64 days!

7 Anti-Aging Tips for Beautiful Healthy Skin

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Thank you Olay for sponsoring this post. Olay is a worldwide leader in skin care and has been trusted by women for over 60 years! #ad #ageless

7 Anti Aging Tips for Beautiful Healthy Skin

I was super lucky as a teenager and had fantastic skin. This continued into my twenties, and as such, I neglected to adopt any type of daily skin care regimen or consider how my diet or water intake might affect my skin long term. Other than the occasional face wipe to remove a few swipes of mascara from a night out or to clean up while on a camping trip, I thought a skin care routine was for my peers struggling with breakouts and greasy skin.

Lately, however,  I have started to notice some beginning signs of aging; first wrinkles appearing (sigh...), dark under eye circles (particularly on days following a night of little sleep) and spots of discoloration. I've realized it's time to up my game and commit to taking my anti-aging destiny into my own hands. Today I've partnered with Olay to share 7 anti-aging tips for achieving beautiful, healthy skin without spending prestige prices.

A Weekend on Whidbey Island

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Thank you Whidbey Camano Islands for partnering on this post and hosting our stay at Inn at Langley and dinner at Orchard Kitchen. Whidbey and Camano Islands are located in the middle of Puget Sound and an easy drive from Seattle. The shortest distance to far away!

A Weekend on Whidbey Island

Just a quick drive and ferry ride from Seattle, Whidbey Island is one of my favorite destinations for a quick weekend getaway. For one, it's the Island I grew up on, and two, my fiancé S and I are getting married on Whidbey in September! Once an island girl, always an island girl! I recently partnered with Whidbey Camano Islands for a weekend visit to Whidbey Island for S and I to gather ideas for our guests for when they visit the island for our Wedding!

The Bride's Guide: 6 Essential Items to Prepare for Your Wedding Day

Friday, June 2, 2017

This post is sponsored by BabbleBox.com on behalf of Single Edition Media. As always, all opinions are my own!

The Bride's Guide: 6 Essential Items to Prepare for Your Wedding Day

Well hello 3 month countdown to our Wedding Day! Things are getting seriously real over here in terms of wedding planning. S & I visited Whidbey Island a couple weekends ago (where I grew up and where we are getting married!) and found some great recommendations for our guests for lodging, dining and spending time on the island for our big day!

As much fun as we are having, I'm not gonna lie, wedding planning has been and continues to be a bit stressful. From our guest list, to dress shopping, to the food, to choosing our venue, it was hard to know where to start. With a vision in mind for the perfect day, I've partnered with Babble Box to share a list of 6 items to help things go a little smoother and to prepare any bride for her wedding day . . .

 ~ The Bride's Guide: 6 Essential Items to Prepare for Your Wedding Day ~

The Bride's Guide: 6 Essential Items to Prepare for Your Wedding Day

How I Keep My Hair Looking Fresh & Healthy Everyday in 3 Easy Steps

Monday, May 29, 2017


How I Keep My Hair Looking Fresh and Healthy Everyday in 3 Easy Steps

How I Keep My Hair Looking Fresh and Healthy Everyday in 3 Easy Steps

I have long, thick frizzy hair that is constantly a hassle in the morning. I am always on the lookout for ways to make my hair care and beauty routine easier and more effective, because as much as my hair is a hassle, it's also one of my favorite traits and I'm definitely not ready for the cut. I've partnered with Satin-lined Caps by Grace Eleyae to share how I keep my hair looking healthy in 3 easy steps.