Nordstrom Holiday Gift Guide: Our Top Picks

Because Nordy's is always a good idea!

Are holiday sweets REALLY messing with your skin?

"Go ahead and have that extra piece of warm pecan pie with homemade vanilla bean ice cream," says skincare guru Ulli Haslacher. During your younger years, you may have experienced acne or other skin-related blemishes when eating a diet high in sugar. Even as you've aged, you may still look in the mirror and notice similar skin problems after eating certain foods regularly. It's tempting to connect your skin issues to the food you eat.

Remake: Your one-stop-shop for ethical fashion (and how to be a more conscious consumer)

Remake is a nonprofit organization providing consumers with information, resources and opportunities to make more ethical and sustainable choices.

Sskein: fashion that's sustainable, local and giving back to the community

Sskein has partnered with Mary's Place for their No Child Sleeps Outside campaign. The company will donate one beanie for every beanie purchased now through February 2022 as part of their Our Beloved Beanie initiative.

Platinum Plush: trendy, affordable fashion from a local small business

“These aren’t shoes you’ll find at Macy’s,” says Nikita Mathis, owner of Platinum Plush, a small fashion and sundries shop located in the Othello neighborhood.

Movers & Shakers: Stephena Anderson sews preemie hats, donates to NICU families

Having a preemie or micro-preemie baby is more common than most realize, and many families are significantly underprepared to clothe their tiny new bundles of joy.

All hail Chunks: Vibrant, groovy and responsibly made hair clips

In the world of hair candy, Chunks reigns supreme.

The female-owned small business that changed skin care around the world

October is National Women's Small Business Month, which honors those local businesses owned by women that make a large impact on your community. Pour Moi is one of those small businesses, and it has completely changed the skincare world with its main philosophy: Where you live is the most important factor in achieving a successful anti-aging skin care routine.

Photos: Must-have runway trends at Bellevue Fashion Week's Posh Party Show

Happy Bellevue Fashion Week!

Drizzle & Shine sources cruelty-free clothes, so you don't have to

Jean Coburn chose the name because things are often gray here in the Northwest, but the sun always makes an appearance.

Local salon launches 100% vegan hair & self-care line

Oh, and did we mention it's also cruelty-free?

Dress In Love brings unique glamour, local flair to Southcenter Mall

Walking into theDress In Love boutique in Southcenter is truly a fashion lover's dream - a wondrous escape from the outside world where colors and prints play vibrantly together. Karina Silva is the proud owner of Dress In Love, one of the few locally-owned clothing stores inside the Westfield Southcenter Mall. Silva has worked in the clothing industry since she was 21, and prior to opening the shop had operated The Shoecloset, another women's boutique, in Southcenter.

Photos: Seattle rapper Macklemore opens golf apparel pop-up in Capitol Hill

No there is a headline we never though we'd write!

Macklemore's golf apparel line opens flagship store in Capitol Hill

Are you ready to "pop some tags" atMacklemore's new store? The GRAMMY award-winning rapper from Seattle is launching theflagship store for his golf apparel line,Bogey Boys, on Saturday, Sept. 18, in Capitol Hill. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by @macklemore. Bogey Boys originally launched online in February. The Capitol Hill store is the first-ever brick-and-mortar location for the lifestyle brand, which aims to pay "homage to the past while moving golf fashion forward. "

Photos: Ciara reps Seahawks at Met Gala, rocks Russell Wilson jersey-inspired dress

Upscale resale at one of the Seattle's first consignment shops, Funky Jane's

Local consignment stores are booming as the desire for sustainability and reducing the fashion industry’s impact on the environment becomes more important. One such store has served West Seattle with gently loved clothing for over 25 years.

Movers & Shakers: Styled by Christine wants us to step into our best selves

Welcome to Movers & Shakers; a series where we look deep into PNW life for people who are making moves, doing big things, and who are just - in general - being rad. Seattle is full of multi-talented and multi-faceted people, many at the intersection of technology and the arts. How do they find the time? What's their secret? Well friends, we're here to find out. Meet Movers & Shakers; aka Seattle Refined attempting to capture the not-so-secret lives of impressive locals.

Photos: Metropolitan Fashion Week 2021 returns to Seattle

Glossier opens flagship Seattle store, first since closing all spaces March 2020

The aesthetic, the pink, the floral elements — yup, that's a Glossier store you might have seen pop up in Capitol Hill.

Everlane opens University Village store, first in the PNW

Everlane is has arrived in Seattle.

Rabecca Onassis Boutique in Pike Place adds bold color to a grey city

Rabecca Onassis Boutique is not your typical Seattle apparel store. Among the usual grey and black clothing that walks the streets of the rainy city, owner Frilancy Hoyle struts in a bright yellow dress. With her store, she invites others to be bold with their fashion. "I came to Seattle and said, 'I'm going to put every color somewhere in everyone's life,'" she said.

Female-founded MOMMA has swimwear you can live in all year round (even in Seattle)

In the city of rain and cloudy skies, local Seattleite Jackie Robinson founded MOMMA, a woman-owned, ethical, luxury swim brand that you can live, swim and hike in all year long.

Get "X-mas miracle pricing" on the trendsetting skincare that's based on your location!

It may not feel like X-mas weather right now, but Pour Moi, the innovator in the skin care game, is celebrating X-mas in July with 12 amazing gifts. That's right, 12 days of X-mas and 12 reasons to elevate your skin care right now. Pour Moi is the first and only company in the world to earn a patent on Climate-Smart Skincare. Their approach to skin care, backed by years of research, accounts for the various climate zones in the world and addresses the unique problems associated with each one.

Photos: Shop these 20 picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

'Natural Face Lift'? We tried the Fassage, a facial massage that boasts crazy results

Spending the past 15 months staring at my face on Zoom, coupled with officially hitting my late 30s during the pandemic (hello 37! ), left me somewhere between “Black don’t crack” and “where did that wrinkle come from! ” So, when I learned that Seattle Master Esthetician Patty Huang’s signature “East-meets-West” fassage (facial + massage) was like a “natural face lift,” I immediately closed my Chrome Botox search and booked an appointment!

Arvin Goods calls BS on sustainable fashion, launches its own apparel line

"I always felt there was a better way to do what we are doing," saysDustin Winegardner, co-founder and managing director of local sustainable apparel brand Arvin Goods.

Seattle-based Radmor is making fashionable, sustainable golf clothes

There's a saying: look good, play good. But, when it comes to golf, looking good has, historically, been a bit of a challenge.

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