There are few things in life I’m sure of, which I owe mostly to being a Libra. Making a decision? Me? I’ll need at least 10 minutes on this menu, please. The only things clear to me are that I know who I am, who I love and what makes me happy. If you haven’t guessed already, one thing that makes me happy happens to be shopping. In all forms. In store and online. Preference? In store, but that’s not always possible if your fave shop isn’t in your city and state, am I right?

I often get asked the question from friends and colleagues where I go to buy dresses or where my fave places to shop online are. So I thought I’d break it down for fun and offer a few insights on my go to spots:

Where I Shop in Seattle

• Nordstrom — obviously an obvious, not just because Seattle is its headquarters. I go there for everything. I trust in their brand and love all the labels they carry. I enjoy their constantly changing and always exciting in-store experiences. When not at work and missing from home, you can always find me in shoes.
• Nordstrom Rack — another obvious, but it’s like an extension of Nordstrom at the most exciting prices. Some of my most memorable shopping experiences have taken place at the Downtown Seattle Rack. I swear it’s the best. I’ve found Tory Burch handbags for $50, Vince heeled sandals for $100, Alexander Wang dresses for $150. It’s addicting AF but that excitement just keeps me going back for more. Tip: if you work in the downtown area, pop in after work or during your lunch break and scan the designer shoe area + racks — guaranteed to find treasures on a weekly basis.
• Zara — ever since Seattle got this hot Spanish retailer downtown, I’ve been obsessed, like the rest of the masses. It’s fast trend, low price point, one chaotic store of inventory at times, but worth it if you want to grab a fun piece to add to your wardrobe of quality staples. The fit can be off for some but for me, it works. So this is where I go if I can’t find the trend piece I’m looking for in Savvy, Topshop or TBD at Nordies. Note: the three above stores are all in a row on one street downtown. THAT is really where I am when missing from home… 
• Aritzia — ahhh another fabulous international retailer that has won over so many women’s hearts since their arrival. Blame Canada. Aritizia is that innovative boutique you can trust will have clothing and accessories with both has impeccable design and quality that is like no other. Their silky offerings make me swoon.
• Lululemon — it’s basic but it’s a necessity. I love shopping other activewear brands but this is the one I just can’t get at Nordstrom. I love both their clothing and accessories for yoga, running and just looking plain cool. My fave pant? The Inspire cropped for running and the Wunder Under Hi-Rise for yoga / lounging.
• PIPE AND ROW — though I don’t make it in there as much as I should, it’s that hip, local boutique right down the street from me in Fremont that is straight top notch. Unique brands, high quality and always on trend. Check them out if you haven’t heard of it (they have an online shop) and support the founder and owner who happens to be a fellow Coug!

Where I Shop Online

• Revolve Clothing — THE go to site for the hottest trends and quality pieces carrying inventory from over 500 women and mens brands. Alice + Olivia, For Love & Lemons, Mink Pink, NBD, Parker and more. If you are looking for a dress that will make eyes turn at your next party, I tell friends to go here.
• ASOS — this British shop for young adults expanded to the US in 2010 and carries clothing, accessories and beauty from over 850 top brands. The inventory and price point are just money. I suggest friends go here for a great variety of basics and options of dresses and shoes you may not see in store. Their ASOS brand is like what Topshop is to Nordstrom. Pure awesome sauce.
• HauteLook — I mean, it was acquired by Nordstrom in 2011, and so now it’s basically a large extension of The Rack online. What more could you ask for? The flash sales site offer great deals on top brands and designers, so be sure to subscribe to their emails to be in the know of what’s coming next.
• Bluefly — so this site is great because it has curated sales from over 3000 top designers like Prada, Gucci. Louboutin and more! Ladies who are seeking designer, this place is a great start. I peruse weekly as I get their emails as well on new sales.

Where You and I Need to Start Shopping STAT

• BNKR — so Australia grew a little savvier and decided to create an online shop for the growing US market. Obsession, get ready! This site is the only online retailer that stocks the full lines from top labels C/MEO Collective, Finders Keepers, Keepsake and The Fifth. Go. Shop. NOW! 
• Modern Citizen — so I recently learned about this shop from a Chicago Fashion Podcast I’ve been into lately, and fell in love once I visited the site. The stock is limited but the thoughtfully designed pieces will make your head turn. They focus on (wait for it) modern style that you can afford with zero quality lacking.
• Reformation — simply put, they make clothes that don’t kill the environment. How cool is that? Environmentally friendly fashion is picking up but these guys are def ahead of the curve here. Their mission is to lead and inspire sustainable fashion and they do so by sourcing sustainable fabrics and vintage garments while incorporating better manufacturing practices. Shop them now and #jointhereformation.
• FORWARD by Elyse Walker — online shopping made glamorous. I want everything on this website and it’s probably because of the amazing designers and leading names you want to wear — think investment pieces, think couture. Save your monies for this site and DEF watch their ongoing sale! Thank you fashion stylist and entrepreneur, Elyse Walker. #lookFWRD
• Net-a-Porter — another online hot spot that sits up at the top for designer shopping. They’re known for their amazing packaging of black, ribboned bags that arrive filled with tissue and a promise of one incredible new item to add to your collection. WhoWhatWear describes it as “…the ultimate e-commerce platform for luxury brands…”, with tips on what to buy now and how to style. My husband recently stumbled upon their site for men, Mr Porter, and he browses it often as a killer lookbook. Check it out if you haven’t already, and treat yoself to a beautifully packaged present :).

Did I miss one of your favorites? If I did, please let me know! I’m on a constant hunt for the best finds in fashion and am on a mission to share the wealth with you all.

// cb ✌????

THE EDIT: OTS Stripe Blouse (similar) | Fringe Black Denim | Patent Pumps | Bucket Bag | Watch | Choker | Sunglasses