Style Buzz: Bling + Heirlooms + Accessorizing A Button Up

Three Ideas to Inspire Your Style This Week

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I've archived my life in an interestingly textile-kind of way!"

I recently helped a client sort through - no joke - hundreds of pieces of clothing to keep, sell, or donate. Once everything was hung and categorized, it was fascinating to see the wildly different styles she'd purchased over the years. From boho to ballgowns, each one represented a memory from a former self,

of friends and family, celebrations and events. What

a colorful way to honor all those times in her life!

xxx rachel

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TREND: HANDBAG CHARMS

If you've seen me in person over the last year, you've likely seen my handbag decorated with all these charms (and yes, I move them from bag to bag!). It's such a fun way to add some personality to your handbag, making it so unique to you.

This practice has been in style for a while, but it's picking up steam again as a Spring/Summer 2025 trend. My particular charms reflect a trip to London, a gala giveaway, a Christmas cracker prize from my sister, gifts from my dad and a friend, and a giveaway from last year's Sip & Seams VIP event. I love that they tell a story about me (and they're so pretty), plus no one ever confuses my bag for theirs!

Try this for yourself by adding pieces you find or collect! They're lovely souvenirs of the places you go and the people in your world.

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HEIRLOOM PIECES

Clothes aren't the only items that have an heirloom factor to them. Some of the charms on my bag are just trinkets, but they'd be a pretty sentimental collection to pass down to future generations. It's often something to consider when making an investment in a piece - will this be durable enough to last for a generation (or more)? Will it still be desirable and valued? If you're looking to make those types of purchases locally, here are three ideas at local boutiques.

Miss Meers carries the Chie Mihara brand - made in Spain from handraised goats. Chie's philosophy resonates with PNW sensibilities, making them a beautiful, long-lasting and mindful purchase.

Gilt & Gossamer's Claire V. line of handbags is a treasure trove! These sturdy bags are on trend with their colors and designs, and some have additional strap options to really match your personal style.

Locally-made Savage Roots jewelry cleverly straddles the line between statement and signature. They're pieces you can wear occasionally as a focal point, or be known for always wearing it.

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3 WAYS TO ACCESSORIZE: Blue Striped Button-Up

A blue & white striped button-up shirt is a staple in my wardrobe. It polishes up easily with a blazer and skirt for business, and I can wear it casually with shorts and sandals in the summer. By itself it's a little plain, so I add accessories to the neckline, which draws the eye up and brings the focus to my face.

The chunky clear acrylic bead necklace adds some texture that balances out the structure and stripes of the shirt.

Here I've added a burgundy silk scarf under the collar. It's a pop of color that adds an elegant, whimsical touch.

Bling out the collar of a plain shirt with a whole garden of brooches! The sparkle is both delicate and unexpected.