In Fashion Events, My Favorites on
April 19, 2017

Small Business Saturday

With Black Friday Sales galore I wanted to showcase a different approach to holiday shopping this year – Small Business Saturday!

Instead of shopping exclusively at big national stores, I encourage you to explore the local small shops this holiday season. Most have great deals going on right now and the one on one service you will receive is not comparable to any of the mass stores. But furthermore, shopping locally and small makes an important impact on our community and strengthens our “village”.

I know everybody has one or two friends who are business owners. How about making their Christmas a little brighter by getting that awesome blanket scarf from them, instead of that nationally known department store? It is just as convenient because almost all small businesses have online shops now.

Here are a few of my favorite small businesses selected for you!

Betty Be Good offers hand picked, boutique styles for the frugal fashionista. Everything in the curated collection is under $60 excluding outerwear, so you can find a whole new wardrobe without breaking the bank! The boutique is located at Birch Bay Square, which is 15 minutes north of Bellingham.

Sierra’s Smokey Peplum Moto

It is always difficult to find a great leather jacket, but this one is perfection. I absolutely love the stitch detail, and figure flattering peplum waist. And the price makes it a no-brainer.

Brooklyn’s Blanket Scarf

I can’t wait to snuggle up with this warm scarf, which is one of the hottest trends of the season.

Randi’s Reindeer Pullover Top

How cute is this top?! Perfect for all holiday festivities ahead of us.

Maple + Moss Boutique is a women’s retailer located in Historic Downtown Snohomish, catering to the adventurous, confident and stylish woman. They also have great accessories and gift items worth checking out. I love their boho casual style and cute mugs!

Viva La Brunch Tee

I can just see myself wearing this top to Sunday brunch with some cute boots and a cardi!

Anchor for my soul Mug

Everybody needs and “anchor for the soul”, especially if it contains coffee.

Stella and Dot is a San Francisco based social selling company that creates flexible entrepreneurial opportunities for women. Being a Stella & Dot stylist myself, I can say from first-hand experience that Stella & Dot’s CEO, Jessica Herrin, puts a huge emphasis on empowering women. She created an amazing community of women by providing flexible entrepreneurship. The custom designed accessories are gorgeous and of highest quality that you would only find in fine jewelry. I also love the fact that Stella& Dot is committed to social responsibility and product safety.  And of course, the gorgeous jewelry speaks for itself!

Here is a heads up: We have a huge sale going on right now with lots of items 60% off! This sale happens only once a year and the prices will go back  to regular prices Monday morning!

Azure Tassel Necklace

Semi precious lapis beads in cool colors combined with pops of citron for a lengthy, effortless look. Detachable tassel allows to take your look from beach boho to casual chic.

Pauline Ring {sold out, but check out more rings here}

Five semi-precious hand-set lapis stones round out this intricately designed ring with gold plating. This ring is on repeat because of the bold statement it makes and, believe it or not, the comfortable wear.

Veda Split Ring {click on the sale tab to find the ring}

This is a fun and flirty double-detail cocktail ring. One size fits all because it is adjustable.

Here are two more small businesses that I mentioned in my previous posts. Make sure to check them out!

Something Silver always has great deals on jewelry and has 3 amazing shops to visit in the Pacific Northwest. Here is some shopping inspiration for you.

Emerald Cuff is a Seattle based online shop with beautiful clothing and accessories. Here is one of the collections, Kensington, styled by me.

 

Please, consider your local women friends in business to shop with and make a difference this Holiday season.

Happy Small Business Shopping, friends!

xoxo,

 

Olga

 

 

 

 

 

In Fashion Events, My Favorites on
April 19, 2017

Something Silver

As I announced in my previous post, I was invited to the fabulous Style Up event at Pacific Place last week and teamed up with local jewelry store, Something Silver. And what a fantastic event it was!

Playing with all the gorgeous jewelry, I truly felt like a kid in the candy store. I just wanted to try all the gems and sparkle on at once!

Something Silver has a huge selection of jewelry that matches literally every style, from trendy fashion jewelry to timeless and refined designer pieces.  Since I love supporting local businesses, it feels great to shop at Something Silver knowing that it was founded right here in the Pacific Northwest. Everybody at the Pacific Place location was so sweet and helpful, especially the store manager, Lori, who I can’t thank enough for hosting me.

I had the chance to style a few items, which you can see in the pictures above. Also, if you hurry, you can still see my picks displayed at the Pacific Place store.

And here are the exciting news:  Something Silver is offering a 15% discount exclusively to my readers!

The discount code is BLISS for online checkout. For in store purchases, make sure to show the sales person this blog post on your phone. Easy peasy.

This exclusive discount is valid through the 31st of October and is on regular priced merchandise only, online and in store.

To give you some ideas, here are some of my picks that I am crazy about:

Kitsch Pearl & Crystal Ear Cuff

Ear cuffs are still a hot trend this season, and this one is extra glamorous.

Silver Prong Set CZ & Pearl Double Sided Studs

Pearl studs are so classic and timeless. The only thing making them better is to combine them with zirconium studs at a terrific price point.

 

Graduated White Pearl & Sterling Silver Necklace

I fell in love with this gorgeous necklace! I can see myself layer it with other silver necklaces, or wear it on its own as a daily basic. So versatile and absolutely beautiful.

 

Sterling Silver & CZ Bar Cuff

A great cuff that can be layered in an arm party or worn on its own. Just the right amount of sparkle.

 

Tiny Sterling Silver V Stacking Ring

I love knuckle rings and this one actually fits because it comes in sizes 3-7! Also in a gold filled option. I want to wear them on every finger, they’re so cute!

I hope all of you can take advantage of this great offer and find a piece or two that brings some sparkle to your style.

xoxo,

Olga



 

In Outfits on
April 19, 2017

Cocoon Coat – the Fall Must-Have

cocoon coat

||Cocoon Coat: Topshop Amelia Slouch Coat | Shirt: Emerald Cuff (sold out) | Jeggings: Black High Waisted Distressed Knee Jean Leggings | Shoes: Loslandifen Shoes | Necklace: Stella&Dot Aria Pendant Necklace ||

Every woman has those few staples in her wardrobe that make her feel warm and cozy: The perfect knit sweater, a big fluffy scarf to hide in on those dreary February days, or a great pair of riding boots.

In my case, I need a coat that I can rely on to wear anytime, anywhere and with everything. I have owned many coats in my life time, from classic wool coats to double breasted trench coats. So this season, I chose a slouchy cocoon coat from Topshop as my ride and die for the winter months.

The name of the cocoon coat alone emanates a feeling of protection and comfort, something that I ultimately seek for when the days are getting colder. And this coat definitely lives up to its name. With its relaxed fit and oversized collar, it is the perfect addition to any winter outfit.

Although, the cocoon coat is universally flattering, I would like to share a few tricks how to look your best in it:

  1. Wear sleek bottoms – Balance the coat’s slouchy fit with a pair of jeggings or your favorite pencil skirt
  2. Wear high heels – Elongate your legs by wearing high heels, unless you have modelesque long legs, of course
  3. Wear layered tops – Take advantage of the extra room underneath your cocoon coat and layer shirts, blouses, and sweaters to your heart’s content

And most importantly, cuddle up in your warm new coat with a cup of hot coffee, while braving the cold outside!

 

xo,

Olga

Cocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatCocoon coatBlack patent stud heelsQuartz necklacefuture photographer

Here are a few more cocoon coats that I am currently obsessed with!

Asos coat

Fluffy Asos Coat

  1. Crew Coat

A big Thank you to Victoria West Photography and Shaun Turley Photography!!!

 

In Outfits on
April 19, 2017

Fringe Leather Skirt

fringe skirt

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and we have a bazillion of family gatherings, work parties, and Holiday gatherings to attend. Unless it is an Ugly sweater party, the outfit choices are vast. This is one of the few times where sparkles and sequins during daytime are not frowned upon. As much fun as a glam look can be, I want to show a comfy and versatile alternative to all the red, green, and gold combos.

Black and white is a timeless classic,  but the fringe leather skirt really mixes things up. I am utterly obsessed with anything fringe right now, so this mini skirt is right up my alley! As you can see, I had a blast just twirling around in it (like a goof) and can even imagine hitting the dance floor in it.  I paired the faux leather skirt with a white oversize sweater and some black booties to make the outfit more casual and also warm, to be honest.  Of course, you could wear this skirt with a cute sparkly top or a blouse and add some high heels to make this look more evening appropriate. That is why I love this skirt so much – it is so versatile and fun!

Now, here is my favorite part: This whole outfit is under $100!!! And you can mix and match the items with everything else in your wardrobe. Looks like a win win in my book!

Enjoy the holiday season in style, dear friends!

 

Olga

fringe skirt fringe skirt fringe skirtfringe skirtQuartz necklace and fringe braceletFringe leather skirtFringe leather skirt

||Sweater: Express London Tunic Sweater (on SALE right now!)|  Leather Skirt: H&M Skirt with Fringe | Booties: H&M Ankle Boots | Necklace: Stella&Dot Aria Pendant Necklace | Bracelet: Stella&Dot Jacinthe Bracelet (sold out)||

One Shirtdress – Two Fall Looks

 

|| Plaid Shirt Dress: Emerald Cuff Kensington Collection | Boots: Sam Edelman Penny Boot | Similar Jacket: Zara Biker Jacket | Similar Booties: H&M Ankle Boots | Silver Ring: Stella&Dot Rebel Ring | Silver Earrings: Emerald Cuff Kensington Collection ||

It is Wednesday morning and my alarm rings. As I am sluggishly making my way out of bed, reality sets in. Get my son out of bed, prepare breakfast, get him dressed, remind my husband where his car keys are, remember to bring this week’s “show and tell”, brush my son’s teeth…did I even brush mine this morning? Shoot, it’s already past 8?!?! And out the door we tumble.

I’m sure many of you can relate to the daily morning chaos, being a mom or not. Having 527 thoughts race through your mind at once doesn’t leave much room for dressing myself as fashionable as I would like, and I end up sporting the usual mom uniform, yoga pants and an over-sized sweater. This is where Emerald Cuff saves the day. Being busy Seattle moms themselves, the ladies behind Emerald Cuff understand the struggle. Therefore, they created an online boutique with one single mission – to make it simple for incredibly busy moms and women to look and feel their best.

Instead of walking up and down crowded malls, or browsing endless online shops, Emerald Cuff does the leg work for us. The founders, Erin D., Maria, and Erin O. hand-pick fashion collections that are released monthly in limited numbers and always have the modern on-the-go woman in mind. Each collection includes an outfit item paired with an exclusive handcrafted jewelry item and a bonus style piece as a gift. All we have to do is pick a collection and it will be delivered to our front door. Can’t get much easier than that!

Part of the Kensington Collection is this beautiful plaid shirt dress, which I paired with my favorite pair of boots and some knee-high socks for warmth. I felt comfortable and stylish at the same time, and plan on wearing this exact outfit to many occasions, from shopping trips to parent-teacher conferences. Also, let’s take a minute to acknowledge how “Seattle” this outfit is…I can’t think of any more appropriate outfit to sip your coffee in!

In order to take this dress up a notch for date night or cocktails with your gals, I added a faux leather jacket and black booties. I think it looks cute and a little bit of sexy, which is a great mix, if you ask me. This shirt dress is so incredibly versatile that I see myself wearing it on repeat this season, paired with a sweater, or even my fave staple, black leggings.

The jewelry item included in the Kensington Collection was this gorgeous pair of sterling silver earrings, and I am so smitten with them! Their beauty is obvious, but they are also feather light that I don’t even notice them throughout the day. My favorite part, however, is that they were handcrafted with labradorites by Sara Preston, a jewelry designer working exclusively with Emerald Cuff. Every item in the jewelry collections is meticulously crafted with artisan materials such as real stone and gems, from her Boulder Co workshop.

plaid dress 2 looks

I have to mention the high quality of the clothes and jewelry I noticed, and am looking forward to wearing these pieces for a long time.

If you are a busy, stylish woman and love supporting women entrepreneurs as much as I do, give Emerald Cuff a try with this 15% discount exclusively for my readers: BLISS  The discount is valid on everything site-wide through November 23rd!

Keep calm and shop on, ladies!

xoxo,

Olga

Photo credit goes to Victoria West Photography – Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Outfit was sponsored, but opinions are 100% my own. Thank you!

 

In Fashion Events on
April 19, 2017

Pacific Place Style Up Event

Is the October rain bringing you down? Are you in need of some retail therapy?!  I know I am.

What better place to get your style fix than at Pacific Place?!  Located in the heart of downtown, Pacific Place is Seattle’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination. There are countless stores, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside this very popular shopping center. I know I can spend all day there without even stepping a foot outside, which is perfect when it is pouring cats and dogs.

All next week, Pacific Place is hosting an exclusive style event, and I am so happy to share it with you!

While Monday is all about fall fashion, on Tuesday, October 13th, the focus will be on accessories and beauty.  I could not be more excited to be included in this wonderful event!

The jewelry retailer “Something Silver” is graciously inviting me into their shop (level 3) to style their fabulous gems and jewels. Being jewelry obsessed myself, I cannot wait to get my hands on their new styles and share them with all of you.

A major reason why I adore “Something Silver” is because they carry unique designs that you can’t find anywhere else.  I always find it difficult to find reasonably priced jewelry that is high quality, but not boring. That is exactly why “Something Silver” is such a great choice with its exclusive creations from local and international designers.

To make a great thing even better, Pacific Place is giving away swag bags and prizes! So grab a few friends and make sure to RSVP to Tuesday’s event!

Make sure to follow me on social media to find out what jewelry I will choose and I can’t wait to see all of you at  “Something Silver” on Tuesday!!!

XOXO,

Olga

 

How to Glam up a Basic Outfit

|| Gap Grey V-neck tee | Banana Republic Perforated faux leather pencil skirt (similar) | Sam Edelman white mules | Old Navy tortoise sunglasses | Stella & Dot Zora crystal necklace | Chantilly lace cuff | Cleopatra stud earrings ||

Today I am posting a look that can go from running errands to lunch and even to dinner dates – it is just that versatile! Perfect for long days on the go and lots to accomplish. I love how it is not overly fussy, but still looks put together.

To add some visual interest to this classic look, I spruced up the basic grey t-shirt and the sleek faux leather skirt with some major bling.  This is hands down my favorite necklace because of its versatility. Wearing it during the day with a simple shirt or blouse gives you that little extra, and in the evening it can really glam up your outfit.

I can’t forget to mention my new shoes! I am obsessed with the sleekness of these white mules and the texture of the calf-hair leather. Another reason why I love them so much might be the fact that you can hide your old pedi for a few more days and still look chic 😉

Happy July 4th everyone! Be safe and happy!!!

 

Tropical Top

|| Express Tropical ladder back top | Express Distressed black jeggings |

Tahari black booties (similar) | Michael Kors Ava small saffiano leather satchel |

Stella & Dot Emerald Eye Candy Necklace | Gold Pavé Chevron Necklace | Bracelets in order: Rainbow Visionary bracelet | Orange leather Enlighten bracelet | Alice bracelet | Amelie sparkle bracelet ||

The Pacific Northwest has been blessed with the most gorgeous weather here lately. I hear we even beat California in higher temperatures.

We Washingtonians know these sunny days are counted, so all of us are flocking to parks, beaches and outdoors to soak up as much Vitamin D as possible. That makes for very crowded strolls in the park and busy parking lots.

Thankfully, the sunshine turns almost everybody’s frown upside down.  And if that doesn’t work, a cute, colorful top will for sure 🙂

I am absolutely obsessed with this tropical top and am wearing it every chance I get, to my birthday dinner, shopping at the mall etc.

My new black jeggings are exactly what I was looking for. They are high-waisted and hug you in all the right places. You know what I mean 😉

Enjoy the great day, loves, may it be sunny or not!

 

In Outfits on
April 19, 2017

Pleated Midi Skirt and Thoughts on Women Supporting each other

||Top:  Express Stretch Cotton Cropped Tank | Skirt:  Banana Republic Floral Pleated Midi Skirt | Shoes:  Sam Edelman Odelia Mules | Jewelry:  Stella & Dot Element Necklace |  Blue Lapis Lazuli Pauline Ring (sold out) | Alice Tennis Bracelet  ||

I have been looking high and low for the perfect pleated midi skirt, and I finally found it!  The skirt’s waist is high enough, so I can wear a crop top without flashing too much skin, just a sliver. Since I wanted the skirt to be the showstopper, I chose a simple black top and some delicate jewelry to compliment it. Wearing this outfit I felt dressy without being fussy or overdone. The perfect mix between modern and romantic, if you ask me 🙂

I had the privilege of working with the talented young photographer Victoria Westrick for this photo shoot. It was so much fun and I felt incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to work with her. It also made me realize how important collaborations are, especially between women.

Let me recall a far too familiar scenario: We start a new project, business endeavor, what have you, and we are excitedly sharing our big plans with our girlfriends, just to find out that they are not as supportive as we anticipated.  We are left wondering “why?” and start double guessing our plans, our friendship, and even ourselves.

More often than not, women for one reason or another do not support other women’s goals and efforts. May it be in the work environment or on a private level between friends, I have personally encountered push back and, in some isolated instances, even sabotage from other women.

However, whatever their reasoning may be, much more important is the fact that we all need support. We all need reaffirmation every now and then. Even the most confident person can’t do it on her own. We need our girlfriends, our sisterhood, our squad, our tribe.

As different as we may seem, we all feel joy, pain, and love the same way. Why not use our similar experiences to relate to each other and connect?!  Let’s build acceptance, support, and love for each other because … God knows, we could use more of that.

How, you might ask? It can be as easy as sharing your girlfriend’s latest post on your page or liking and following her business page or blog. It takes about 30 seconds, but means the world to your friend. Trust me.

You might say your friend’s handmade cat costumes are just not your thing? Fair enough. However, I bet one of your 375 Facebook friends was searching desperately for exactly that dinosaur costume for Mr. Mittens. Just saying.

Thankfully, I have been lucky enough to have encountered some women who are the epitome of supportive friends and coworkers.  This post is a tribute to them and to all women not afraid to stand behind other women’s dreams. They are wise enough to understand that your girlfriend’s success is not your failure.  On the contrary, it is a testimony that we can achieve our goals with hard work, focus, and a little support.

Let’s celebrate the women that are always there for us, supporting us in every endeavor, big or small!  I raise my glass to strong, supportive women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.

In this spirit, I would like to introduce a new movement – Sisterhood of Bliss – a place where women support other women’s goals and dreams without judgment and where we celebrate each other’s success. Let me know what you think or of any ideas or comments you have! And if you used the hashtag #sisterhoodofbliss for your posts, I wouldn’t even be mad 😉

A big thank you to Victoria Westrick Photography ! Stay tuned for more collaborations…

When women support each other, incredible things happen.

 

In Kids and Family Fun on
April 18, 2017

10 Tips for Hiking with Kids

Hiking with kids

1. Start a tradition!

Pick a good hiking day for your family’s schedule and try your best to stick to it. Soon, prepping for a hike will be as natural as getting ready for school.

Another great way of starting a hiking tradition is to give kids a patch or button after every accomplished hike that they can collect and display with pride. Stickers or print-outs of awards will do, too!  With time, you not only have an impressive collection of hiked trails, but also priceless memories of family time well spent.

2. This one is a no-brainer – lots and lots of encouragement and praise!

Try to make the first hike a positive experience for the kids which they would love to repeat. Even if the accomplishments are little and your first few hikes might not be more than a stroll on the neighborhood trails, celebrate them as if they just climbed Mt. Rainier! Positive reinforcement is what will make the little ones come back for more and eventually finish “real” hikes.

3. Entice … okay, bribe them!

Offer them a treat or an award if they make it all the way to the peak or your selected destination. The only condition is that the kids have to earn their treat by finishing the hike all by themselves. No cheating by catching a ride on dad’s shoulders allowed.

When my son gets tired, I remind him of the yummy candy he is so close to enjoying, and all of a sudden a burst of energy helps him back to the parking lot. Works every time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Never, and I mean never, cave in and pick them up!

Instead, take a break and tell them how great they have been doing and how proud you are of your little hiker. Sticking to your guns the first few times will simplify your hiking experience in the future. Soon they won’t even ask any more because they know that being carried is a no-go for a “true” hiker.

5. Provide them with fun gear!  

Carrying their own backpack and wearing cool hiking boots does wonders for kids’ confidence.  We, adults, know how new, shiny gear can spark excitement about hitting the trail.  It’s no surprise the same goes for our mini me’s.

6. Invite other kids (and their parents) along!

Not only is hiking more fun with friends, but it also makes the kids want to show off their new hiking skills.

Also, they are less likely to whine and fuss in fear of embarrassing themselves in front of their friends. Killing 2 birds with one stone is what I call that.

7. Distract them with fun!

Make up songs, play games on the trail, tell jokes, or anything else you can come up with to distract them from the actual “work” of hiking.

For instance, we came up with a silly marching song that we hum every time it gets a little too monotone on the trail. Anything will do to avoid nagging and whining. I’m sure you hear me on that one.

8. Stop and wonder!

Take in all the beauty around you that Mother Nature has to offer. And most importantly, see them through your kids’ eyes! It is too easy to pass by the little flowers on the side of the trail in anticipation of the big waterfall ahead of you. I get it…but it’s just as amazing to pause and enjoy the little beauties.

Kids have an advantage on us when it comes to the little things, so we might actually learn a thing or two from them about enjoying the moment. There are plenty of new things to discover on the trail as long as you pay attention. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. Pack a nutritious lunch and call it a picnic!

Hiking can be an exhausting endeavor for little feet. Make sure to bring a lunch and snacks that provide lots of energy, such as a healthy sandwich and fresh fruit. And lots and lots of water!

Find a nice sunny spot, preferably with a view, and get comfortable. And don’t forget to “leave no trace” behind and take your trash back with you. Even little hikers live by the motto “Pack it in, pack it out”.

10. And finally, take LOTS of breaks.     

We have a fun way of making sure everybody stays hydrated and energetic. Every time we see water, may it be a stream or a big puddle, we drink a sip of water. For the kids it is fun to spot the water and yell “water break”, and adults are just happy that everybody is hydrated.

Any time you notice your little one slowing down to a mere snail’s pace, I suggest to take a short break. Regenerate and energize with a quick snack and chances are the hike will be more enjoyable afterwards. After all, it’s about the journey, not the destination…