Shop Local: Your New Go-To Boutique in Queen Anne

The Vixen Collection and I go way, way back. If I didn’t already adore owner Courean Napolitano, I truly fell in love when she supplied the location for the Poplin Microsoft ad a few years back… after all, as a personal stylist for women not tied to any retailer, I don’t have a storefront.

If you haven’t been to Vixen, or you haven’t been lately, it’s unlike any other boutique. Vixen isn’t a store, exactly. It’s a community. Anyone in Magnolia knows it well. Pop in to see what’s new and you’ll likely walk away with a few pieces including jewelry, a hat or even that adhesive strapless backless bra you need for tonight’s dinner. Or perhaps you’ll stock up on gifts or the array of delightful dishtowels. So many options.

It’s not just clothing, accessories and home goods. Vixen also has a FULL range of spa services from lash extensions to nail services, massages and the list goes on. And when I say it’s a community, I mean it’s a full on community. Courean and team track client birthdays, offer personalized holiday shopping experiences for partners and hold unexpected events like palm reading and parties. My husband and I went to the friends and family pre-opening of the brand new store in Queen Anne and were greeted by a lively, fun, packed house that also included margaritas, tacos and a DJ.

I know it’s challenging to find new spots to pop in and do some shopping and self care, so I’m happy to send you over to either of the Vixen locations for your next outing. The prices are really reasonable and Courean personally curates the inventory.

The vibe is effortless, beachy, a little boho. Essentially, when you are shopping at a Vixen location, you feel like you are planning for your next vacation, even if it’s in Seattle. Can’t make it in? You can shop online! Here are some of my favs. Enjoy and as always, LMK how it goes.

What Size Pants Should I Buy When I Don’t Have Time to Try Them On?

As a personal stylist for women, I hear all of the challenges that women face when it comes to executing their ideal personal styles. Some are large and some are small. Knowing some quick tips to save time and money is always a major win. I love this one.

The 10 Black Owned Clothing Brands that I'm Currently Obsessed With

Things have changed in the fashion industry since 2013. That’s when your very own personal stylist for women wrote a blog post about my then favorite black designer. I researched for hours in search of other options that spoke to me. Sadly, there were very few black voices that were being amplified. There’s still a long way to go, but for now, I’ve got some real favorites.

After finding myself lost in the rabbit hole of the interwebs, I found my favorite resource for Black owned brands and spent the rest of the day totally immersed. So, how about I save you some time and share?

One of my favorite aspects of this list is the purpose behind nearly every brand. Helping clients shop their values is a passion of mine and this list is filled with values based options. From shopping BIPOC makers to brands that have an unwavering commitment to the environment or those that give back to communities in the US or Africa, this is one inspirational list. A few of the brands have manufacturing in the US. Others, are dedicated to inclusive sizing and color palettes. Many are embracing multiple paths to make the world better. Shopping them is a great way to support this approach.

Poplin in Forbes!

Ever wonder what your very own personal stylist for women thinks about the blazer dress trend? When the good people at Forbes reached out, I had lots to say.

Poplin Finds for your Creative Style at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

It’s time for your very own personal stylist for women to shout from the rooftops everything you need to know from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Yes! Using your authentic personal style key words helps you filter items before you buy. This ensures that your closet is only filled with pieces that communicate who you are without using words. With this approach in mind, I’ve got 5 lists for you. Each one is jam packed with pieces that communicate one of the following archetypal key words: Edgy, Boho, Classic, Creative and Effortless. Kick things off with the posts that speak to you the most. But, don’t stop there. Remember, chambray shirts are classic and leather jackets tend to be edgy. So, you’ll likely find items you adore in every post. And they are ALL ON SALE. Items are always super functional for your life and sell quickly. So, keep that in mind and have a great time.

Welcome back to a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale worth shopping!

Poplin Finds for Your Classic Style at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

As a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale used to be a key milestone in my year. After all, Nordstrom is a beloved hometown company and this sale is the opportunity to shop fall pieces on sale before the prices increase. Genius. Clients would pre-book shopping trips during the sale. I’d plan for a sea of wishlists highlighting items. Then, came COVID.

Not only did clothing needs change rapidly in 2020, but the ripple effects on the fashion industry continue to have a very real impact. Ongoing supply chain issues, halts and delays in production due to COVID cases, shortages of qualified retail staff and more have made it easy to forget all about Anniversary. If those weren’t enough, my visits to Nordstrom stores over the past few years have been disappointing as the better finds were available online and not in stores.

Until now. I hit a local Nordstrom early last week to see the pre-sale and to peruse summer clothes. I was ELATED to find pieces I wanted to buy. Full disclosure: I was deep into warm weather clothes that weren’t on sale, so if that’s your jam right now, Nordstrom is still a solid go-to. As for fall pieces on sale, I’ve got those, too!

So, we’re back to my annual list of anniversary finds. In fact, there are 5 lists- Each one devoted to one of five archetypal style key words: Effortless, Classic, Edgy, Creative and Boho. Fun fact, those are also on the main Poplin Pinterest personal style boards on the website. So, if you enjoy the list, hop onto Pinterest and see recommendations from other retailers. One more thing, make sure to explore all the boards. After all, you may not see yourself as having a classic style, but a chambray shirt or pair of jeans is pretty classic. So, you’ll find those in the “classic” group. Have so much fun and LMK what you think!

Poplin Finds for your Effortless Style at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Ready to embrace your effortless side while saving some cash? This is a great place to start. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale kicks off today and items always go quickly.

We’re back to my annual list of Nordstrom Anniversary Sale finds. In fact, there are 5 lists- Each one devoted to one of five archetypal style key words: Effortless, Classic, Edgy, Creative and Boho. Fun fact, those are also on the main Poplin Pinterest personal style boards on the website. So, if you enjoy the list, hop onto Pinterest and see recommendations from other retailers. One more thing, make sure to explore all the boards. After all, you may not see yourself as having a classic style, but a chambray shirt or pair of jeans is pretty classic. So, you’ll find those in the “classic” group. Have so much fun and LMK what you think!

Boho Finds at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

As a personal stylist for women, I’m on the hunt for great value for my clients at all times. And, as a Seattle-ite, I’m a long time fan of our hometown hero, Nordstrom. Historically, the Anniversary Sale has been a holiday for all of us, although these past couple of years that hasn’t been the case. No longer! It’s time for fun finds at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? I’ve got more good news for you. We’ve got 5, count them 5! blog posts for Anniversary. Each one is focused on a different archetypal personal style key word. Start with the best fit for your authentic personal style and dive into the the others, just in case. After all, sneakers are effortless and leather jackets are often edgy, so you might find gems in more than one list.

Specifically, we’ve got 5 blog posts- Each one devoted to one of five archetypal style key words: Classic, Effortless, Creative, Boho and Edgy. Fun fact, those are also on the main Poplin Pinterest personal style boards on the website: Effortless, Classic, Edgy, Creative and Boho. So, if you enjoy the list, hop onto Pinterest and see recommendations from other retailers. Have fun and let me know how it goes.

Edgy Poplin Finds at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

As your very own personal stylist for women, I would like to welcome to your 5 Nordstrom Anniversary 2022 Shopping Lists! There are 5 lists- Each one devoted to one of five archetypal style key words: Effortless, Classic, Boho, Creative and Edgy. Fun fact, those are also on the main Poplin Pinterest personal style boards or on the website at Effortless, Classic, Edgy, Creative and Boho. So, if you enjoy the list, hop onto Pinterest and see recommendations from other retailers. One more thing, make sure to explore all the boards. After all, you may not see yourself as having a classic style, but a chambray shirt or pair of jeans is pretty classic. So, you’ll find those in the “classic” group. Have so much fun and LMK what you think!

My Favorite Things Right Now

Why does it feel like so often I’m starting newsletters and blog posts with something about how rough things have been? (Typically, newsletters are more personal and have some added good stuff, so subscribe if you don’t already.) These past couple of weeks are no exception. In fact, in a lot of ways, things feel worse than ever.

But they are not. We’re resilient and capable and it’s very important to remember that, especially when things feel like they are at their worst.

Looking for ways to actually FEEL better? How about diving into this list of my favorite things and poaching some for yourself? I’m confident we’ll feel stronger together:)

My Favorite Things Right Now

What to Wear to that Summer Wedding

As a personal stylist for women, I know that this is the time of the year that I start hearing from panicked clients frantically searching for the ideal outfit for that summer wedding… or those several summer weddings. This year, the struggle is more severe. After all, it’s been a few years since most of us have attended a large event with a dress code. The COVID 15 or 20 is a factor for many, not to mention the social anxiety of traversing the style continuum from sweats to cocktail attire. If none of those obstacles apply and you are an extrovert like me who is elated for this opportunity to kick things up a notch, you might also be faced with the daunting challenge of shopping right now. COVID has not only left a mark on our psyches, it has had a significant impact on our choices from supply chain issues to inflation. Finding that ideal dress that is both available and affordable is harder than ever.

Not to worry, Dear Reader! I’ve got you covered. I’ve been living in this space for weeks as I shop for clients and for myself and I’m here with solutions. Have some fun with it. Remember, what matters most is seeing the people you love IRL, not what you are wearing. But, really, when you love what you are wearing, you are bound to have a much better time and be happy with the photos afterward. Off we go!

My Favorite Things Right Now

There's SO much good stuff right now. I know. It certainly isn't what you are hearing and seeing when you let the world in, but it's out there. Here are some of my favs. Thanks for being here and go team!

Welcome To The World Of Shapewear

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Jessica Burton. Jessica brings her wealth of knowledge including an expertise in undergarments and her warm personality to this post. Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Shapewear has been around for quite some time now. Depending on the clothing you’re wearing, you’re likely to find just about any type of design when it comes to shapewear these days. The real question though, is what do you do with those particularly hard to wear outfits? Do you often find that those tricky dresses and skirts just sit and collect dust in your closet? As a personal stylist, I’m here to give you some inspiration and show you that you can confidently wear those items. Below you will find choices for shapewear that will properly fit under those difficult ensembles, along with new, innovative styles.

When A Bra Won't Do The Job: 5 Bra Alternatives for Tricky Dresses

Editor's note: Below you'll find another blog post from Jessica Burton. Jessica brings her wealth of knowledge including an expertise in undergarments and her warm personality to this post. Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

With warm summer days ahead, it’s time to break out your favorite sun dresses and sleeveless tops. While backless, one-shoulder and strappy dresses are a great option, it can sometimes be tricky finding the right type of bra to pair with them. Well, fear not. Your personal stylist is here to help! You can rock these looks while feeling supported regardless of your bust size. Say goodbye to the days of feeling limited with purchases just because finding the right type of bra can be intimidating. Below is a list of fun and functional alternatives to help take the place of a traditional style bra.

Life Changing Seamless Underwear

Editor's note: Below you'll find a guest blog post from Jessica Burton. Jessica brings her wealth of knowledge including an expertise in undergarments. Love her and you will, too. Enjoy!

Whether you are working out at the gym or wearing a new dress at a wedding, having underwear lines can truly ruin an outfit (not to mention just be plain embarrassing). Finding the right style of underwear can be intimidating to begin with, but as a stylist, I’m here to help educate and provide guidance to help you choose the style that will be best for your body type and aesthetic preference. Below are the top brands for each style of underwear to fit your lifestyle needs, comfort level and ensure that you feel confident. With new, modern techniques for removing underwear lines, you’ll want to ditch your old pieces and start wearing these cool, comfy options on the daily.

5 Essential Bras To Fit All Your Lifestyle Needs

Editor's note: Welcome to Underneath it all: 5 days of Undergarments. Below you'll find a guest blog post from Jessica brings her wealth of knowledge including an expertise in undergarments and her warm personality to this post.

Finding the right type of bra for your outfit can be a challenge. I know just how important it is to be comfortable but also fashionable at the same time. Depending on your body type and the outfit you’re wearing, specific styles of bras will be needed. While most women ditch their bra the second they get home from work, the goal here is to make sure you feel both comfortable and beautiful at the same time. You no longer have to sacrifice comfort while looking good. You can have the best of both worlds! Below is a list of bras to help for every day or those very special occasions in your life.

Top 5 Bras For Your Wardrobe

Spring Cleaning: 5 Useful Things to Do with Your Old Clothes Other Than Purging Them

I spent yesterday afternoon revamping my husband’s closet. Fun Fact: Years prior to starting Poplin and becoming a Personal Stylist, I would create outfits for my husband and take photos of them that he could reference on his phone. He used them all the time and when it was time for a career change, we realized that what are now, “outfit photos” for clients, are an incredibly useful tool for men and women trying to look their best and get out of the house quickly.

Back to the closet. If you, like me, are especially inclined to do some deep cleaning and reorganizing as the weather changes, you likely already have a few bags of clothes and shoes to be donated. Before those head out the door, there are some really useful ways you can capitalize on your beloved pieces before they go to their next owner.

5 Useful Ways to use your Old Clothes Instead of Donating Them

10 Things to Make Your Life Better Right Now

How to Look Amazing in a Sweatshirt

As a personal stylist for women, I get all sorts of questions about what to wear and how to wear it. As a stylist during the pandemic, those questions move quickly to loungewear and how to look great while being supremely comfortable. Fortunately, functionality has always been at the core of Poplin, so answering these questions is easy.

Personally, I’ve never been much of a sweatshirt person. I always felt pretty sloppy in them. Historically, I’ve owned one or two at a time, if any at all. Now, I have an entire drawer of sweatshirts and I wear one most days. I love the versatility, the ability to wash them so quickly and with all the germ awareness we’ve developed over the past few years, they feel much cleaner than a sweater because you can bleach them or wash them in hot water. Options abound. The key is ensuring that you feel like your authentic self AND that you are still communicating your style at the level that makes you look and feel your best.

First off, you’ll want to choose the right sweatshirt for your body type and your authentic personal style. Plus, it should obviously be cozy. Otherwise, what are we doing here? Here are some ideas to kick things off.

The Hippest House Shoe with Arch Support

As a personal stylist for women, one thing that comes up repeatedly is the struggle to find comfortable attractive shoes. Whether you suffer from Plantar Fascitis, general foot pain or just want to end the day without worrying about your feet, the proper shoe is vital. Over the past few years, we’re seeing more and more clients with foot issues thanks to working from home and living in slippers or flip flops.

As someone who’s had a hybrid work environment for several years (working from home, at retailers and at client homes), this is one of my obsessions. So, when I find unicorn shoes, I have to share.