Prepare your skin for the summer heat with this simple three-step routine

Pour Moi has changed the skincare game. Pour Moi made the first and only Climate-Smart Skincare line in the world because research has shown that location matters far more than skin type, ethnicity, or age when it comes to skin care routines. As summer gets in full swing, the skincare aisle is busy with people trying to protect their skin from the sun, relieve dry skin, and mask age marks. If you're not shopping the right way, none of your efforts will lead to results in the mirror.

Popular beauty brand Alaffia connects Olympia, WA to Togo, Africa

CEO Olowo-n’djo Tchala is building a bridge from Olympia to Togo, a West African nation over 7,000 miles away.

Artist of the Week: Kirra Lien Steinbrueck of Unfettered Adornment

"Creating art for the body gives me the opportunity to explore this question: What do we value as a society?"

Photos: Top Australian footwear brand FRANKiE4 lands in Seattle

Crikey! (Sorry, we couldn't help ourselves).

Revolutionize your night-to-morning anti-aging skincare routine with this dynamic duo

When you walk into the skincare aisle, you're bombarded with all kinds of products, claiming they will rejuvenate aging skin or relieve dry skin. You might even see some that are for specific skin types, convincing you that you've finally found the perfect cream for your unique body. The problem with these products is that they don't address the most important factor when it comes to skin care. That factor is your location!

Worth It? I laminated my eyebrows (and I'm obsessed)

We've all got a favorite feature. Mine happens to be my eyebrows.

Photos: Seattle jeweler's 'Treasured Collection' celebrates, gives back to AAPI community

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and to celebrate, Seattle-based company Boma Jewelry has created a new collection.

Seattle-based Merino wool company launches plastic-free outdoor gear

An expensive pair of underwear is responsible for the birth of Seattle-based Merino wool company, Woolly, co-founded by three outdoor-loving friends in 2013. When avid skiers James Kelly and Mike Kudriavtseff each received a pair of Merino wool underwear for Christmas one year, they fell immediately smitten with the fabric, but not so much the $75 price tag.

Sound Styles clothing store is making customers happy, one song at a time

Right across the street from the iconic Edmonds fountain, you'll find a women's clothing store — Sound Styles. It's been around for nearly 36 years and is music to the ears of its customers. Jenny Murphy is the owner of this unique business, and she's also a trained concert pianist. You'll hear her playing everything from classical to country to contemporary. "To have music, live music, in the store is a little unexpected and a delight for most people," she said. "People love music.

Your skin care routine doesn't end when you go to bed

Your muscles and brain need to recharge after a long day of activity, and sleep is when a majority of that recharging happens. Just like other parts of your body, your skin needs that rejuvenation time so it can heal from the damage it took during the day. Enter night creams from Pour Moi, the first and only patented Climate-Smart Skincare line in the world.

How Federal Way's Jamie Kern Lima became unstoppable

Jamie Kern Lima - you are an entrepreneur who co-founded IT Cosmetics, philanthropist, mom, and an author . You’ve got a brand new new book out [‘Believe It: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable']. But before we get to that, we’ve got to give you a shout out because you are also a local gal... I grew up there [in] Federal Way then Des Moines and then I went to Washington State as well [editor's note: Jamie currently lives in California].

Tony Kim: The man who brought balayage to Seattle

Tony, owner and color practitioner at Tony Kim & Co, was one of the three original colorists to bring the iconic balayage straight from Paris to Seattle in the early 2000s.

Photos: Seattle Storm debuts new uniforms for the 2021 season, and OMG

Daaaannnnng.

Photos: New Ballard boutique has perfect wedding dresses for PNW brides

Looking for that perfect PNW wedding dress?

Skincare customized for the climate where you live

Have you tried what seems like every skincare product to try to improve your complexion, only to be disappointed by the progress you see in the mirror? Perhaps you've approached skin care based on whether your skin is oily, dry, or sensitive. Think about why your skin is the way it is. Could there be another factor? Now is the time to redefine skin care so that it's based on your zip code. Pour Moi is the first and only company in the world to earn a patent on Climate-Smart Skincare.

PNW Mobile Spa: New Seattle company brings the spa to you

Going to the spa is an experience in and of itself, but what if you brought the spa to you?

Seattle nonprofit creates a welcoming global community by investing in refugee women

Once in a while, there is a person who stands out from the crowd. Someone who by their own perseverance and dedication makes the world a little brighter. I recently met someone like this, Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman. She is the founder of a small non-profit since 2017 called Refugee Artisan Initiative (RAI), located in the Lake City area of Seattle. The storefront is simple and nondescript, in fact, as I walked up the street I almost passed by it.

The skincare routines to follow in every climate

You will never walk into the skincare aisle and find a product that says, "One Size Fits All. " Traditionally, skincare products have been marketed for different skin types, such as dry, oily, or sensitive. Skin also tends to deteriorate as you age, which creates even more obstacles in your battle for clear, healthy skin. Now, forget everything you've been told about skincare. The most important factor isn't the type of skin you have or how old you are. It's your location!

Adorned Abode: Fine Gift Giving in the Heart of Tacoma

With recent features in NY Magazine and Forbes, it only makes sense that Seattle Refined share the local love with Adorned Abodetoo! This darling shop in the heart of Tacoma - on E. D St & E. 25th St - showcases fine gifts for all; they’re the perfect venue to browse when you want to surprise a friend, find the ideal gift for Mother’s Day, or say “thank you” to one or many. Founded by Benita Smith during the fall of 2016, Adorned Abode is tucked in the Old Historic Freighthouse Square.

10 Valentine's Day Gifts Ideas Your Other Half Will Love

If you've made it this far in quarantine with your plus one and you're still into them - heck ya, it's time to celebrate!

7 Galentine's Day Gifts Your BFF Will Love

PSA: Galentine's Day is Saturday, Feb. 13!

Serving, Healing, Uplifting: QueenCare offers so much more than beauty products

Inspire youth to identify their talents and equate that to financial gain for their households - AND run a profitable skincare business? It's all in a day's work for Monika Mathews, founder of QueenCare in Columbia City. Fueled by her own personal journey overcoming many obstacles as a young woman, she gives the teens that come through her youth program, Young Queens, the confidence and entrepreneurial tools to succeed in business.

Refined Review: A reusable cotton swab?

How many cotton swabs do you go through each week? Odds are high it's a decent amount - but what if you could reuse a cotton swab?

Beauty meets science at Kirkland-based clean skincare company

"Clean skincare is a great movement with a really good intention, but what clean beauty is portrayed as is not always what consumers think it is."

Boma Jewelry shines with stunning pieces, commitment to sustainability

Boma Jewelry started here decades ago, and over the past 40 years they have grown - and become leaders in the jewelry industry.

Photos: 8 cozy, holiday pajama options for the entire family

2020 is the year of the PJ's, am I right?

I Did It: I bought that infamous $400 hair dryer, and I love it

About a year ago I started hearing about a new hair dryer on the block. A futuristic looking one from none other than Dyson. Dyson, you say? Yes, the same Dyson that is well known for their vacuums. Apparently they have big plans to move into the hair care market. I did a halfhearted search to read a little more about the Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer and found that this beauty appliance held a hefty price tag - $400. That ended my interest. I mean, just imagine what you can buy with $400!

Seattle's FELLER Raincoats provide sustainable luxury for rain or shine

Seattle may not be New York or Paris - but we are fortunate to have some fantastic fashion designers call our area home. From artisanal accessories creatorClare Hynes of Soli and Sun,toAfshan Abbas from Fuchsia - the lovely handmade flats giving artisans a foothold on their futures. Wendy Feller moved to Seattle from New York City many years ago. She is inspired by the beauty (and the weather! ) of the PNW. Refined recently connected with the talented outerwear designer.

Socks + Words: Seattle Company's Perfect Pairing

There are so many cool things happening in Seattle, literally right under our feet! There are so fabulous small businesses getting a foothold on the market - from Fuchsia shoes to Soli & Sunjewelry. And, then, there's Posie Turner socks. This biz is selling something that we all need - socks. But owner Leslie Ota's designs elevate the regular sock to something colorful, joyful and inspirational!

I went shopping with a virtual stylist, and now I'm never leaving my house again

So much has changed since COVID-19, including the way we shop. Nordstrom is open for in-person shopping with safety precautions in place, but for those who aren't ready to venture out just yet, the department store has come up with a virtual solution to get you your shopping fix; a one-on-one appointment with a virtual stylist. While many things just aren't the same (and sometimes worse) when done virtually... this was surprisingly not one of them.

West Seattle business handcrafts unique bow ties for pets *and* people

At Seattle Refined, we are pawsitively smitten with our furry friends! From Potato the teeny tiny kitten to Rumple the roof-sitting dog - we love sharing stories about our favorite four-legged pals and their people. That's why when we heard about Amber and Tom Meyer and their bow tie biz, it set our tails wagging! The creative couple designs and sews bespoke bow ties for people and pets through their business Ugly Yellow House, based out of West Seattle.

Photos: 10 comfy, cozy looks to rock at home

Soli & Sun: Artisanal accessories featuring the colors of The Philippines

We're fortunate to have a lot of amazing entrepreneurs here in the PNW. They're people who make it a point to help others and lift them up - all while running a business. We had profiled many of these cool and creative folks - like Afshan Abbas from Fuchsia - the gorgeous handmade flats giving artisans a foothold on their futuresto Shaydon Graybeal, owner of the West Seattle shop Alair, who carefully curates her store to feature local artists who are committed to giving back the community.

Valerie Madison marries environmental responsibility with dazzling jewelry designs

At Seattle Refined, we love sharing inspiring stories about people pursuing their passions. From the Redmond native turned Hollywood stuntwoman flipping the script on gender typecasting, to artist Keegan Hall - who didn't start drawing seriously until a few a years ago and now has drawn on his talent to donate $425K to charity. Valerie Madison is another local artisan and businessperson whose career started in a very different way.

Tacoma-based company is changing the golf shoe game

It's one of the best feelings in golf, like draining a birdie putt, or crushing a drive. "I grew up playing with heavy, bulky shoes," said Jason Moore, President of TRUE Linkswear. "It was always such a relief to get finished with your round and take your golf shoes off. " TRUE is a Tacoma-based company that's changing the game when it comes to golf shoes, building them with the walking golfer and, yes, Northwest golfer in mind.

Our top picks from Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

It's Anniversary Sale time!

Fit to be Tie-Dyed: DIY The Colorful Summer Trend

If there's an IT trend for the quarantine summer of 2020, it's got to be tie-dye. Originally popular in the 1960's and 1970's as a way to personalize clothes, tie-dye is back - and better than ever! It's a DIY project that's (literally) bound to be bright, messy and unpredictable. In other words - there are no mistakes in tie-dye, only colorful coincidences! Supplies. white cotton shirts (pre-washed) rubber bands. Tie-Dye (we used the dry powder version, just add water) plastic gloves.

Pike Place fabric shop designs 'Sleep Care-Cushion Kits' for people living homeless

Do you love to sew? Do you have a stash of fabric somewhere in your closet or basement that hasn't seen the sun since the dot. com crash? Do you still have those love beads, buttons, patches and patterns that used to be called "hip? " Or maybe you've stashed away yarn remnants from your thirty-year-old son's baby blanket? If so, you may be a "Stashaholic. " No, there is no Stashaholic Anonymous, but you can join other like-minded craft aficionados by becoming a member of Our Fabric Stash.

The gorgeous handmade flats giving artisans a foothold on their futures

The PNW is a center for innovative approaches to fashion. FromArmoire, the cutting edge clothing rental business, to the Bellevue mom designing inspirational jewelry- there are so many creative people and companies in our area. Afshan Abbas, the CEO and Co-founder of Fuchsia Shoes was inspired to start her business after a trip to her native Pakistan. She knew that there would be customer demand for the beautiful embroidered handmade shoes she saw there.

Snohomish manicurist absolutely Nails dazzling designs

You could call her the Queen of Creative Nail Art. Patrycja Tarnowska's designs range from tie dye to 'Tiffany blue' inspired, from patriotic to playing cards - even rainbows with pots of gold. And that's just the beginning. At Polish Me Pretty Nail Salon in Snohomish, salon owner and manicurist Patrycja Tarnowska creates stunning nail art. (Image: Patrycja Tarnowska) She's the multi-talented manicurist behind the Polish Me Pretty nail salon in Snohomish.

One of NYC's most in-demand fashion illustrators is from Mercer Island

High Fashion. It's a world of glitz and glamour, of flashbulbs, runways and couture gowns. Many will never have a chance to wear designer like Gucci and Valentino, but fashion illustration gives people a chance to appreciate, maybe even worship the clothes, in a different way. "It allows people who don't necessarily have access to high fashion brands to invite a high fashion vibe into their home," explained Blair Breitenstein, who is among New York City's most in-demand fashion illustrators.

Live Raffle: Custom shoes designed by Seattle BIPOC artists

Your next pair of shoes could be more than meets the eye. MDRNALT (Modern Alternative) is a sustainable shoe company launched by a small but mighty team of three in Seattle. Its main product is a hemp and cork sneaker that uses 75% less water to produce than the average canvas sneaker. The goal? To reimagine shoe production and fast fashion. Sustainable shoe production has been their mission for the past two years, and now, for the first time, the company's launching a new campaign.

UW football player creates clothing line for mental health awareness

Freshman year atO’Dea High School in Seattle. That's when UW football playerRace Porter says he really started to struggle with depression. "It felt like an everyday sadness," said Porter, "I'd mask it, and try and be my normal cheery self, but my grades started to slip and my coaches and teachers noticed that I wasn't giving it my all. " His parents got involved and got him to a doctor, who diagnosed him with clinical depression.

Nordstrom's new gender inclusive clothing collection celebrates Pride

Seattle based Nordstrom has been in business for nearly 120 years, but they continue to innovate. This month they're launching a brand new project called BP. Be Proud(available online) and it's a first of it's kind for the retailer. Refined chatted [virtually] with Shawn Serven, Lead Designer for the BP. Be Proud Collection to find out more.

Open Now: Seattle area salons, spas & shopping

King County is officially in Phase 2 of reopening. Here's a running list of salons, spas and shopping in the area that are now open! We recommend calling, checking social media and websites before visiting any of these establishments to make sure you are fully up-to-date on rules and regulations. If you'd like to add your business to the list, contact us at hello@seattlerefined. com! Bellevue. Gene Juarez Salon and Spa, 700 110th Avenue NE Suite 290, Bellevue, WA 98004 / 425-455-5511.

Seattle company launches grant program for emerging Black jewelry designers

Seattle-basedBoma Jewelryannounced the launch of a grant program providing opportunities to Black jewelry designers. The family-owned, Thai-owned company has never worked with a Black jewelry designer, and in the wake of the recent country-wide protests against racism and injustice, Boma recognized an area where the they could make a much-needed change.

Woodinville High student creates Funds for Food clothing line to feed locals in need

Some people really can just do it all and make it look easy. In this case, I'm referring toWoodinville High School juniorMadison Chan. Earlier this month, Chan designed and launched her own clothing line Funds for Foodto raise money to help feed locals in need. A big project - yes, but Chan is used to being busy. "My normal life is pretty hectic," she said.

Spring Fashion: 12 trends to wear wherever you're not going this season

Seattle Academy seniors make shirts of local murals to raise money for COVID relief

They're scattered throughout Seattle — murals of hope and positivity aimed at bringing us together during this unprecedented time. We've seen them in Capitol Hill, Ballard, the International District, Belltown and, honestly, just about everywhere. Artists are rallying together with business owners to beautify boarded-up restaurants and shops all around us — and we LOVE it! (Image T to B: Elena Zytnicki / Elizabeth Crook for Seattle Refined)

Taught by TikTok: Make your own tie-dye sweat set for less than $20

Before quarantine, I was already completely immersed in the world of TikTok. Now, with so much time on my hands, I've spent more time on the app than I'd like to admit. TikTok is often labeled as a Gen Z-only social media platform, and before quarantine, only the bravest 20+ year-olds dared to join. But quarantine has changed things, and now the hilarious and creative content is up for grabs to Millenials (and even Boomers), who are logging on to see what all the hoopla is about.

'Just don't' - Hair stylists beg public not to DIY cuts & colors

Quarantine is one heck of a drug. After bingeing everything on Netflix, baking countless ill-advised confections, organizing my closet and deep-cleaning my bathroom, there is only one frontier left: attempting an at-home hair cut. While my roommate was eager to shave her head out of boredom, I decided to take a more measured approach and call on an expert. Mariah Shinners is a long-time hairstylist and owner of Hair By Mariah, working out of The Collage salon in Belltown.

Make your own Lemon Rosemary Scrub with just 4 ingredients

Just because you're WFH wearing your comfy sweatpants and that sweatshirt from college doesn't mean you can't add a little self-care to your life. In fact, you may actually need it. In these uncertain and stressful times, it's SO important to take care of yourself. Here's the good news: you don't need to go out and buy more stuff. A trip to the salon, spa or beauty supply store may not be happening, but a walk to the bathroom is very doable. There's a good chance you have Epsom salt in there.

Nordstrom's Flagship Store is Going to the Dogs!

It's a wag-worthy wonderland for pooches, complete with a giant doggy beds, terrific treats, and opportunities to stop, sniff and make new four-legged friends. Nordstrom's flagship Seattle store is really going to the dogs. The uber pupular pop upDogvillehas arrived. "It’s so much fun because we do a lot of things to just celebrate dogs first," said , head hooman of Dogville. "It's kind of a one-stop-shop for all kinds of pawsome pooch-related experiences and doggone cool gear.

Snohomish teen entrepreneurs capitalize on the scrunchie craze

There are two things I love nothing more in this world - entrepreneurship and the power of sisterhood. When you look at all the “greats” in business, you can almost bet that they embody that entrepreneur, go-getter spirit. They start young and they start bold. They have vision and they’re not afraid of hard work. Then, there's the dynamic between sisters. Sometimes it’s biological and sometimes it’s on a soul level, but the support sisters offer to one another is immeasurable and powerful.

Give blood and get pampered at the So Northwest Women's Show

The So Northwest Women's Show returns to the Tacoma Dome this year for another fun-filled weekend of entertainment, fashion shows, and more. On Feb. 29 and March 1, you'll find hundreds of exhibits and booths set up in the Tacoma Dome. You'll also have the chance to make a donation that can make a significant impact on other people's lives. This opportunity is brought to you by a partnership between Bloodworks Northwest and Gene Juarez Salons & Spas.

Photos: Local startup launches kickstarter for collection made entirely from ocean waste

Goodwill is Your Go To for Winter Fashion for Less!

This time of the year, it's all about fashion that's warm, cozy, and easy on the pocketbook. We stopped by Seattle Goodwill's Ballard Location to get some inspiring ideas from Katherine Boury. Every Goodwill retail store (and there are 24 of them! ) reflects the neighborhood it's in. And let's face it - Ballard is a hipster's paradise. "The stock represents what we see from donations," explained Boury. "So this store has a lot of clothing, generous amount of furniture and collectibles"

Ballaura: Where Relaxation and Wellness Meet

One of these days I’m going to have a monthly standing massage appointment. And when that day comes, that monthly “treat yo self” appointment will be at Ballaura Wellness Spa in Olympia. Over the years I’ve had many a massage, but none quite compares to the full scope treatment at Ballaura. Founded in 2008 by massage therapist Nikki Chryst, Ballaura’s heart and soul beats relaxation and wellness. In The Ballaura Story they share: Our guiding principle is to make sure each client feels safe.

20 Great Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for the Procrastinator

9 sweet & simple gifts for your very best Galentine

Valentine’s Day is widely marketed as being all about true love, the romantic kind. The sweep you off your feet, stolen kisses over candlelit meals kind of love. But you know what else Valentine’s Day is really about? Friendships! Your platonic relationships definitely deserve some appreciation during the month of love too! Galentines (girlfriend valentines) bring a special kind of joy to our lives, and often emulate the true meaning of a loving relationship.

Worth It? I tried Meghan Markle's favorite facial, which massages the inside of your mouth

A crazy-sounding skin treatment that your friend swears by? An all liquid diet your mother-in-law is urging you to try? A restaurant that takes 2+ hours to get to (without traffic), but apparently has the best food north of the Mississippi? We're trying out a new series called Worth It - where we try out stuff that you're wondering may or may not be worth the effort/money/time/etc. you're considering putting into it. Have something you'd like us to try? Email hello@seattlerefined.

From Burlap to Bikinis: A Brief History of Bathing Suits

Orcas Island designer Melanie Trygg was on Season 18 of 'Project Runway '

Minimalist statement-wear designer Melanie Trygg repped her home town of Orcas Island hard on Season 18 of BRAVO'S "Project Runway"! “Going through this experience made me realize that there’s room for my unique point of view," said Trygg, when we recently caught up with her. "I learned that everyone's point of view matters in whatever unique field they have skills in. " While she only made it through episode five, Trygg said the experience was totally worth it.

Drees boutique celebrates 90 years in Olympia

One of a kind shops are few and far between these days. Sadly, they’ve fallen to big box entities and online shopping. So when one remains, it’s apparent that they’re something extra special. Such is the case with Drees in Olympia. Drees, a boutique style shop focusing on fine gifts and home decor, recently celebrated their 90th anniversary. And what a celebration it was!

25 must-have items that scream winter fashion

What to Wear on New Year's Eve

Glam NYE looks that set the GOLD Standard

From holiday soirees to New Year's Eve parties - there are so many reasons to get glammed up this time of year! "It’s a time to shine," said Shannon Schafer, Senior Fashion Director of Nordstrom. "So [think] metallic, bold gold, tailoring with a twist and cozy sweaters that still sparkle for your event. " [Photos: 22 pieces that will have you dazzling on New Year's Eve] Chic Fashion Trends for Holiday and NYE. Party Sweaters:Cozy options for a casual New Year’s Eve.

Holiday How-To's: 6 Hairdos to Celebrate In Style

It's time to bust out your finest and festive holiday garb! Now that you've got your outfit sorted, we've enlisted some of our favorite stylists from The Style Witch in Fremont, to help us with the most perfect hairdos to accompany any holiday or New Year's Eve parties! 1. Beachy & Messy Bed Head Waves. Winter is coming, but that does not mean to forget about beachy and messy bed head waves -this is a look that's around to stay!

12 matching holiday PJ's for the whole family (cuz matching - duh!)

Our favorite holiday finds from Nordstrom

Local designer to be featured on 'Project Runway'

Who says the PNW is not a fashion capital of the U. S.?! Local designerJennifer Charkow of Stone Crow Designs is going to be featured on the upcoming season of "Project Runway"! Oh, YAS! The premier episode will air on BRAVO on Thursday, December 5th at 9:30 p. m. Charkow's work has been featured on the runway at the Independent Designer Runway Show at Bellevue Fashion Week and at FashionNXT in Portland.

'Glossier You' pop-up coming to Nordstrom for limited time only

Do you remember this summer when Glossier, the skincare empire everyone wants a piece of, popped up in Capitol Hill and Seattleites went NUTS?! (Image: Chona Kasinger / Seattle Refined) Same. Which is why we are preeeetty sure those same fans are going to be excited to hear we're getting another little taste of the brand starting today (Dec. 3, 2019), this time in a rad collab with Nordstrom.

25 holiday dresses (& jumpsuits) you can wear over and over again

Armoire: It's like your most fashionable friend gave you the keys to her closet

Black Friday Sale Alert: From Nov. 26-Dec. 3, new members can get a two month membership for $75 (usually ~$300)! Visiting Armoirefeels like your best friend 'the fashionista' gave you the keys to her closet! It's a treasure trove of stylish blouses - dresses, jeans, jackets - even shoes. "Basically, you play dress up, everyday you have something new and fresh," noted customer Andrea Marks. She makes it a point to pop by often.

Seattle Goodwill's Glitter Sale SPARKLES with incredible finds

From stunning gowns to sparkly bags... stylish boots to beautiful baubles. If it shines or shimmers - you can probably find it atSeattle Goodwill's Glitter Sale! Katherine Boury gave us the 4-1-1 on all the fun. "For the past 35 years, Seattle Goodwill has gathered a lot of a designer, vintage, one of a kind unique pieces together and put it all under this one sale called the Glitter Sale. " There are so many incredible finds here.

Photos: Hair stylist to J-Lo, Ariana Grande & Kim K. stops by Seattle to teach new trends

Local shoe company graces cover of 'Runner's World Magazine', wins Editor's Choice Award

We may not have a ton of celebrities or cover models here in Seattle, but stop the presses because we now have a COVER SHOE! That's right, our very own Brooks Running graced the cover of the September/October issue of Runner's World, after it's Ghost 12 shoe won their Editor's Choice Award. This couldn't get any more #SoNorthwest and we love it.

20 trends from the '80s that are back in style

11 Halloween costume ideas if you're tired of being 'Sexy Fill-In-The-Blank'

We may have found the Queen of Halloween, and she lives in Renton

We all have that one friend who goes above and beyond every Halloween. Their houses are always decorated to the nines, their family costumes consistently top notch. Well Renton's Andi Mare Needham is THAT FRIEND, times 100. Every year this mama brings it - costumes galore and house decked out. "It’s so important to me not to let Halloween be a thing of the past," said Needham. "To decorate, turn my porch light on and hand out candy. To have fun with my family and friends and community.

Clothing Subscription Boxes: Worth the hype?

My first clothing subscription box arrived seven years ago. Since, I’ve had countless home try-ons and added many a favorite item to my closet. But, are they really worth the hype? I mean, I obviously love them. After all, the boxes keep coming! It’s never on a consistent schedule (although you can definitely choose a specific frequency when you sign up), but here and there when the season changes or I have an event on the horizon. It’s a fun treat and in the long run saves me time.

Photos: After a success pop-up at Nordstrom, Everlane returns for an encore

Worth It? I tried a $1,500 laser skin treatment and didn't leave my house for 4 days

A crazy-sounding skin treatment that your friend swears by? An all liquid diet your mother-in-law is urging you to try? A restaurant that takes 2+ hours to get to (without traffic), but apparently has the best food north of the Mississippi? We're trying out a new series called Worth It - where we try out stuff that you're wondering may or may not be worth the effort/money/time/etc. you're considering putting into it. Have something you'd like us to try? Email hello@seattlerefined.

Traveling 'House of Modern Beauty' event comes through Seattle this weekend

What's the real deal with Botox? Who should and shouldn't get laser hair removal? Is any cosmetic treatment going to make me look like one of the Real Housewives? As women, especially - I'm sure some of these questions have gone through your head. I know they've done through mine (if one more person tells me I should invest in Botox because "it's preventative" I'll scream)!

DIY Face Masks: Which ones work and which ones are BS

I need to keep it real with y'all - I'm not really a DIY kinda gal in anyway shape or form. When I host parties, I buy EVERYTHING. I hate putting crap together. But motherhood and work has kept me pretty dang busy and my skin is showing it. A spa day is great but like most of us, self care time (and money) is limited. Plus I can be lazy, really, really lazy. So I did a little research on what we can all do at home to get some immediate results. Here's what I tried and how it worked for me.

Top 5 Hair Trends for Fall

FALL IS HERE. Whether or not you are ready, your wardrobe and hair probably are! It's time to start thinking about those fall trends and styles, and with a little help from the Style Witch in Fremont, we present you: The Top 5 Hair Trends for Fall. Feel free to bookmark this article for inspo at your next hair appointment. 1. Center PartSometimes you don't need a huge change to switch up a look pretty drastically. This look can be playful or sophisticated.

We went kilt shopping in Pioneer Square, and you should too

Break out the bagpipes, we're going kilt shopping in Pioneer Square. But this isn't just any old shop -Utilikilts is kind of a big deal. "We’ve got a lot of famous people wearing Utilikilts, and I don’t name drop," said owner Steven Villegas. Villegas may be skirting the issue, but even celebs love UtilikiltsThe Seattle-based company has been in business for two decades, and the Scottish have nothing to do with it. "The idea for Utilikilts came to me in about 1999," said Villegas.

New exhibit in Tacoma aDRESSes the history of the LBD

When it comes to looking chic, nothing compares to the the Little Black Dress, or as it's affectionately known - LBD. From Coco Chanel's classic designs in the 1920s to Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffanys", the LBD has become a bona fide fashion icon. Now, a new exhibit at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma is a-dress-ing this phenomenon of these frocks, showcasing dresses from their collection.

Fresh ingredients and packaging free, LUSH Cosmetics is the [bath] bomb

As soon as you step inside LUSH Handmade Cosmetics, you know you're in someplace special. The shapes, colors and scents of their products are downright dazzling. But that's just the beginning! "LUSH is a company that thrives on innovation and intention, so we invent a lot of our own products that includes things like bath bombs, shampoo bars, and we do a lot of things that are packaging free," said Ciaran Rhodes, the manager at the Bellevue Store.

The interactive hologram experience at Ben Bridge Jeweler that will dazzle you

If one thing in life is crystal clear, it’s that Ben Bridge Jeweler focuses on bringing you beautiful, high-quality jewelry and an engaging shopping experience. The family-run fine jeweler has been around for more than 100 years, and time is doing anything but dulling their sparkle. And as if jewelry shopping wasn’t already fun, Ben Bridge’s recent redesign roll-out makes for an even more exciting and engaging customer experience.

Where to find clean summer beauty products

Refined chats with Beauty & Lifestyle Expert Celia San Miguel about the top trends for clean summer products. Watch the video for all the details and deals!

5 vintage-inspired looks that you should be wearing this summer

You probably know that Seattle Goodwill is a great place to score the latest looks for less. But it's also a treasure trove of amazing vintage finds! But with so many incredible items - what should you be on the hunt for? Seattle Goodwill’s Vintage Fashion Collection is the perfect place to begin. It was started in the 1960’s by a group of volunteers who began saving vintage items that were donated to Goodwill as a way to preserve local fashion history.

Vintage Fashion & Cars: Seattle Goodwill models dazzle in old school photo shoot

Photos: Our top picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Top 10: Fresh Tangerine's most popular pieces of jewelry

Photos: 15 colorful ways to strut your stuff with Pride