By Sarah Butler

From the must-have color palettes to artisanal prints, everything is perfectly refreshing for Spring 2012. You too can be a style muse this season with top trends for spring from The Bellevue Collection.

Here are the looks that debuted April 21 at the Spring 2012 Exclusive Runway Show.

1. African Artisan: The ultimate escape into tribal stripes, animal prints, and natural textures with a local artisan focus on beads, weaves, and more.

2. Sand to Sea: An ode to underwater world! From seaweed, seashells, and fish scales to ocean waves and glittering sunsets, it’s time to live in pearlized finishes that shimmer like a mermaid’s tail.

3. Candy Coated: Indulge in a sugary sweet color palette for spring that’s inspired by your favorite sweets, from lemon sorbet to mint ice cream.

4. Floral Focus: A head-to-toe floral explosion of hyper-bright blossoms. From graphic to oversized to abstracted, it’s a fresh new take on a classic spring print.

5. Graphic Metallic: Graphic color blocking meets glamour and glitz for a very architectural look.

6. Ladylike Chic: Femininity takes form in lace and pleats for a fragile but strong appeal.

7. Fit Fashion: Performance fabrics bring the thrill of sports to fashion with hi-tech prints, drawstring details, and streamlined track pants.

Want more insider scoop? The Bellevue Collection has created a “Behind the Scenes” video of its Spring 2012 Look Book photo shoot. See what it takes to make the fashion guide of the season, from hair and makeup to stylists and photographers – it’s all there in one irresistible video.

Visit The Bellevue Collection’s Spring Website at, bellevuecollection.com/SpringFashion.

Sarah Butler is Fashion Events & Editorial Coordinator for The Bellevue Collection

By Brianna Butterfield

Engagement photo by Sarah Costa, all other images by Chad Coleman

In a room of people I didn’t know, he looked like someone worth talking to.

It was that smile – the kind that lit up his whole face.  Of course he could have my phone number when he asked for it.

A college party in September, right before the start of my sophomore year at University of Washington – not the time or place I expected to meet my future husband. But that’s how I met Paul Prigge.

I didn’t actually fall in love until Halloween, though. I made our costumes: Adam and Eve. While I was dressed fairly modestly, Paul’s getup included a pair of green boxer briefs with some leaves sewn on a few key areas.

He was the first guy to appreciate my off-the-wall ideas and quirks.

From our sophomore year on, we helped each other find jobs and take on more of life’s responsibilities. After we graduated from college, we knew that, through good and bad, our relationship stands the test of time.

TAKING THE PLUNGE

Three years after that college party where we met, Paul had planned a night on the town to celebrate our  Sept. 22 anniversary.

I could tell something was going on when he took me to the Lake Union docks where Seattle’s most upscale yachts are stored. This spot was special for us. After one of our late-night jogs years years earlier, my adrenaline-loving boyfriend had persuaded me to jump in to those icy waters. While Paul, an engineer, is very mechanical and orderly in how he operates, he thrives on adventure. He makes me take risks and jump out of my comfort zone. It’s something I appreciate – even when it means jumping into freezing water, for a second time.

When he emerged from the water, something wasn’t right, he looked so anxious. I asked him what was wrong, but he simply led me to the end of the dock.

Before he could pull the diamond ring out of a series of plastic bags in his pocket, I pulled him in close.

As his eyes filled with tears, he pulled away from me, got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Of course – I said yes.

THE KNOT

By the next week, I was being asked what type of flowers I wanted, and if we had set a date.

Paul and I realized then that having a wedding and getting married are two completely different things. We are lucky to have loving, supporting parents who make the process easier, but still, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into.

It’s a full-time job; we’ve jumped in, headfirst.

SEPTEMBER CEREMONY

We wanted the wedding to reflect both of us, so this meant an outdoor ceremony, and a fun, nighttime reception. After looking around, we chose a September wedding in Camas Meadows, Camas (close to Vancouver, where I’m from, and Ridgefield, we’re he’s from).

We will be married on their pristine golf course under a white gazebo. Additionally, we were sold on the reception tent complete with chandeliers, tulle-draped ceilings and hardwood floors. We know our friends and family will have an unforgettable night celebrating there with us.

DESIGNER DREAMS

Working in downtown Seattle during college, I often walked by wedding dress designer Luly Yang’s pristine window displays. I never imagined I would be trying on one of her works of art only a few years later. I fell in love with Ms. Yang’s gorgeous creations, but it was actually the veil that made me feel like a bride for the first time.

WHITE & NAVY

I am not the girl who’s been planning her wedding since she was 8.  My instincts, however, told me I wanted a classic look. So, after thumbing through countless bridal magazines and developing an addiction to pinning wedding inspiration links on Pinterest.com, I was able to make a few key decisions. The bridesmaids will wear navy, and all the flowers, a mix of hydrangeas, peonies, and roses, will be white. To add some sparkle, we’ll have gold and silver detailing on the cake, wrapped around the flowers, and throughout the reception tent. Bringing all of these details to fruition is why this has become a full-time job.

CUPCAKES

What could be more exciting than sampling 10 different mini cupcakes from the delectable Trophy Cupcakes shop? Not much comes to mind. Paul and I had the delight of attending one of Trophy Cupcakes’ wedding events. Paul may have tried to finish all 10 of them, with little success. Among nibbling, we fell in love with the lemon and snicker doodle. In fact, it’s likely that one of our friends will be hauling 300 mini cupcakes down to Southwest Washington for the big day.

THE END

The stress of planning a wedding is worth it when the result is a marriage between two best friends. Our timeless, traditional choices are even more fitting, because we want to be able to share these moment with our closest friends and family for years to come. I can’t wait.

For more wedding photos, visit our Facebook page.

Jacquelyn Jaech at the Fred Hutch Gala in December 2011. Duell fisher for Team Photogenic © 2012

Style Watch Column by Rose Dennis

It’s the time of year when calendars start to fill with fundraisers and galas to attend. Whether the attire is business, cocktail or black tie, we should plan ahead to find the perfect dress to wear.

Updating an outfit that we already have in our closet with new accessories always works. With “color” being one of the big trends for spring, purchasing brightly-hued shoes and handbags in pink or yellow (the new neutral) will make you look up-to-date.

Colorful prints are also in fashion, and will freshen up any look. Fortunately, in our area it’s acceptable to be seen in an outfit more than once, and it’s OK if it wasn’t just seen on the runway in Paris or New York.

Whether you decide to wear something new, vintage, or pre-existing in your closet, make sure that it fits properly and accentuates your body silhouette. As our body shape changes, it’s important to constructively look at yourself in front of a full-length mirror and see if you look the way that you want to.

Most events will have a professional photographer taking photos to document the event, which adds importance to looking great on the red carpet. Have your hair and makeup professionally done to accent your look.

Knowing how to pose is also important: If you decide to have one hand on your hip, be sure that all of your fingers are close together, with your other arm down. If you feel self-conscious about your arms, cover them with long sleeves or a shawl; if your thighs or calves bother you, by all means, wear a longer dress. Never hold a beverage glass; try to cross one leg in front of the other and smile!

Andrea Ward and Duell Fisher at the Fred Hutchinson Gala in December 2011. MICHAEL NAIMAN for Team Photogenic © 2012

Carla Murray at the Fred Hutchinson Gala in December 2011. Duell Fisher for Team Photogenic © 2012

Rose Dennis has been singled out by numerous publications as Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker. She lives in Bellevue.

These beautiful and stylish ladies know how to look fabulous. They are my Top Five Ladies who always look like “A Lady.”

Style Watch Column by Rose Dennis

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Heidi Bretz

Heidi’s mother was a model, and her grandfather and great-grandfather were tailors, so she understands the art of good tailoring and fit.

She like cycling and skiing. This explains why she always looks great, especially on the red carpet.

Heather Baker

Heather has defined her own fashion style and knows how to pull together the designer looks that work for her. She is extremely fit, and whatever she decides to wear, her silhouette and attire are perfect for both her and the occasion.

Luly Yang

Luly Yang loves everything visual. Since opening her own couture boutique in downtown Seattle 10 years ago, she has been busy designing bridal gowns along with day and evening wear for her many clients. Her natural beauty and personal fashion style is sleek, feminine and classic.

Stacy Lill

Stacy loves fashion and her style of dress nicely accentuates her silhouette. Her style is often flirty, mysterious, and sometimes traditional, accented with bold accessories.

She enjoys working out, traveling, visiting museums, dancing, and spending time with friends. She takes the time to do all of these activities in style.

Darnell Sue

Darnell is the founder and CEO of Girl Power Hour, with the goal of striving to empower, celebrate and inspire women.

Whenever I see Darnell out and about in Bellevue, she is dressed in the newest fashion trends – young, feminine and chic. Hair, make-up and accessories all play an important role in completing her final look.

Rose Dennis is a Greater Seattle style icon. Singled out by numerous publications, such as Seattle Magazine, she’s been crowned as Seattle’s Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker.

Story and cover image by Alix Rose

In just a few short months, it’s going to be the most wonderful time of year once again – spring. It’s warm enough not to be layered in clothes, but still cool enough to wear some of your winter favorite pieces. Here’s a few winter staples you should keep around for a while.

The tuxedo blazer

The tuxedo blazer added style to your winter wardrobe paired with a cowl neck sweater, skinny jeans and knee-high boots. This spring, spice it up with a little color. Instead of dark skinnys, pair it with bright-colored jeans. Also, don’t cover up the color – kick off those boots and slip on some wedged booties.

Petite exclusive tuxedo blazer $100, asos.com.

The two-toned bandwagon

If you haven’t hopped on, it’s not too late. The color scheme of black and brown has carried the label of fashion enemies for too many seasons, but this spring they will be the best of stylish friends. It was the perfect way to mix up the black and gray winter uniform. It will also be the stylish way to ease into spring. Just add a colored heel and spring yourself stylishly into the season.

Suede and leather pocket shopper Now on sale, $77, asos.com.

two tone miniskirt $70, zara.com.

Neon

Last summer, neon started popping up everywhere and I don’t see that trend disappearing anytime soon. In fact, I think it’s just hibernating for the winter. It will not be widespread until summer, but get on the trend setting side of the look early. What does that mean? Add it in via the smallest ways, a nail polish color, a set of neon bangles, or a bright satchel.

Neon yellow nail polish $6, americanapparelstore.com

taste of neon clutch $49, shophallelu.com.

Spring-summer dresses

I mentioned that it gets warm enough to ditch the layers; that means dresses with no tights. It also means dresses with no backs – OK, so it may not be that warm, but it’s time to start picking dresses that can go from spring to summer. For example, pick a little red dress with three-quarter sleeves that has transition style, warm enough for the cool weather, but cool enough for spring. The little polka dot open-back can work in the springtime, with a coat or maybe even that tuxedo blazer, and will be just itching to make its full appearance this summer.

dot cutout dress $58, nastygal.com.

To sum up

Spring is one of my favorite fashion seasons. It’s a non-commitment style season, much like fall, where you can pair your winter pieces with the new pieces you’ll be purchasing for summer. So have a little fun this spring and mix it up.

Alix Rose maintains a self-titled fashion blog featuring trends, editorials, interviews, guides and a little humor mixed in. For more fashion advice, go to alixrose.com.

By Alyson Andrews |  Photo by Chad Coleman

The holidays are upon us – 2011 has flown by so fast and now – it’s time to end it with a bang. Dressing for holiday parties can be overwhelming, but here are some pieces that will ensure you stand out from the crowd.

Sequins, sparkle, glitter

Any of the above is fabulous and beyond festive, but you want to make sure not to go overboard or else you will look like a disco ball. Go with one key piece that will help you to shine, and focus around that. A black sequin skirt, like this little beauty for $78 from Dillard’s, is perfect – the dark color helps dress it down and look more neutral. You could also have glitter nail polish to add some glam if you aren’t feeling as bold in your wardrobe choices.

The perfect red lip

I recently got into lipstick about a year ago (I was always a lip-gloss girl — very subtle color, but nothing too drastic.) I never realized how much lipstick can change your entire look, and help give you a boost of confidence. The perfect red lip will fit your skin tone, so make sure to shop around to see which one looks best on you. One of the best lipsticks I have ever found is the Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter collection. The name makes them sound more like a chap stick, but they are the perfect hybrid between a lipstick, lip balm, and a lip-gloss. They are moisturizing, pigmented and glossy — three products in one. The best part? They usually run about $7.50 at your local drugstore.

A killer shoe

My perfect outfit is skinny jeans, a cute top and an outrageous shoe. Most of the time my shoes steal the show, and I love it that way. A shoe can make or break the outfit, so if you are feeling most comfortable in the basics, kick it up a notch with your shoes. Whether they are animal print, spiky, or a bright color, your shoes will be sure to get noticed, and you will be the talk of the party. This shoe, complete with hardwear, is the Sam Edelman ‘Lorissa Pump’ $132 available at Nordstrom.

A clutch always works

Clutches are best for holiday parties because you don’t have to worry about lugging around a huge tote on your shoulder all night. All you need are the basics (credit card, keys, phone, etc.) and a clutch is perfect for that. Plus, it looks elegant. To make your clutch the center of your outfit, choose one that’s small, yet efficient. This animal print one from House of Harlow 1960 ($225 at Nordstrom) is excellent, because even though animal print is a neutral, it still stands out and is a great conversation starter.

Make a statement with jewelry

A fabulous jewelry piece will always get women talking. Whether you prefer a huge cocktail ring (my piece of choice), a gorgeous necklace or some blinged out earrings, jewelry is like adding frosting on cake — always necessary.

I hope these tips will help you look and feel your most beautiful during the holiday season, and remember—fashion is fun. Play around with it, and don’t take yourself too seriously.

For more fashion tips, visit Alyson Andrews’ blog, Crushing on Clothes.

Style Watch Column by Rose Dennis

It is that joyous time of year to begin looking for those perfect holiday gifts. When selecting a gift, choose an item that the recipient will enjoy. Surprises are nice, and requesting a gift list is OK, but please remember, NO re-gifting.

A donation to a favorite charity, a new cookbook, CD or DVD are nice gift choices, along with gift cards to their favorite restaurant or retail store. Here are some other gift suggestions from select retailers in Bellevue. Happy shopping!

Wee Tots Children’s Store is a new children’s store located in Old Bellevue that carries a large selection of high quality and top-line baby and children’s furniture, clothing, toys room decorations and more.

Moulin Roty’s French suitcase boasts a rabbit and a mouse with clothing to dress them in. Your little fashionistas will love toting this suitcase-cum-wardrobe to wherever their adventures lead them. Ages 3+, $95.95. 10245 Main St. Suite 103 425-502-7182.

Glassybabies make great gifts, and they come in a multitude of different colors that can be mixed to create warmth and comfort. For the holidays, glassybaby created two new colors: Hope and Joy, which sell for $40 each. 10230 Main St., Bellevue, 425-256-2927.

David Lawrence is known for pushing the limits for the past two decades in the Northwest’s fashion scene with luxury designer labels, like Versace’s beautifully handcrafted Men’s Lux Leather belts, $265 to $295 each, and reptile wallets from $235 to $475. Located at The Bravern, 700 110th Ave. NE, #275, Bellevue, 425-688-1669.

Neiman Marcus has been creating exclusive holiday surprises since 1907 that we want to have and give. Some ideas:

Liqueur Cakes, $34-$54, available in Epicure, Level 2;  Creed Royal-Oud Eau de Parfum, 2.5 ounces, $300, available in Cosmetics, Level 1; Jellycat Brown polyester “Pudge” bear. $90, available in Children’s World, Plaza Level; Located in The Bravern, 11111 NE Eighth St., Bellevue, 425-452-3300.

Rose Dennis is a Greater Seattle style icon. Singled out by numerous publications, such as Seattle Magazine, she’s been crowned as Seattle’s Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker.

Handsome and stylish – what a combination. Those who have it always look fashionable. Here  are my Top Five Men who have their own personal style.

Duell Fisher

I remember when Duell formed Team Photogenic way back in 2001 and it is now the photography company hired by most event organizations in the Pacific Northwest.

In this photo Duell is wearing the perfectly designed Bordeaux custom tuxedo on the red carpet. Besides looking good, he enjoys traveling, watching movies and reading gossip magazines.

Lucien Postlewaite

Lucien Postlewaite joined Pacific Northwest Ballet as an apprentice in 2003, was promoted to soloist in 2007 and then principal in 2008.

Off stage, Lucien has a love for clothes – and knows how to showcase his creativity in what he wears. He also likes to travel, spend time with friends, and eat great food. He does this all in style, of course.

Mark Pellegrino

During the day, Mark Pellegrino must dress to impress in the business world. He sports the perfectly tailored wool suit, pressed white dress shirt, silk tie and polished leather dress shoes for his professional job at Rainier Group Investment Advisory in Bellevue.

In his leisure time, Mark enjoys being comfortable by wearing designer jeans with a relaxed blazer and shirt.

John Stevens

John Stevens is partner in Stevens-Williams, a public relations and marketing services company specializing in travel, home design and luxury goods.

I continue to admire his great taste in clothing and accessories. John shared that in the summer he “likes to go to his lake home in Idaho where he enjoys swimming, long walks with his Corgi mix, Duke (a shelter rescue), wonderful patio entertaining, and boating.”

Ian MacNeil

Ian MacNeil is a true international and domestic entrepreneur.

Next to his passion for business he has a creative side. Ian is a painter specializing in acrylics and encaustic painting techniques. He is also an accomplished golfer, a private pilot, an avid skier and wine enthusiast.

I enjoy seeing him at events because he has no fear of standing out, which is a great!

Rose Dennis is a Greater Seattle style icon. Singled out by numerous publications, such as Seattle Magazine, she’s been crowned as Seattle’s Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker.

Fashion purists may dismiss the rain boot.

It might be just another example of our REI-loving, lackadaisical Pacific Northwest style (or lack thereof).

But I disagree.

While, yes, they may be waterproof, and no, they don’t have a high heel – there’s something sweet and iconic about a good pair of old fashion puddle jumpers.

Not that they’re old fashioned at all these days – rain boots for the modern-day gal come with Coach labels and sassy colors or patterns like hot pink or leopard print.

They can even be found in the most ritzy of shops: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Macy’s. Here on the Eastside, another good source for the rubber beauties is The Grange in Issaquah, 145 NE Gilman Blvd.

For everyday, you can rock the boots with your favorite pair of skinny jeans. For special occasions, I’ve even seen adventurous Northwest brides make them the required footwear for bridesmaids (check out Bellingham photographer, Josh Durias’ photos to see what I mean.)

I grew up in the land of gray skies, where we appreciate our proximity to water, and the rain at night on the roof makes for the best night’s sleep a girl could ask for – rather than an annoyance. Pacific Northwesties, you know what I’m talking about.

We’re not the sunshine bikini state. Instead, our fashion is rain-proof  and ready for inclement weather.

We may as well embrace this glorious, very wet place we live in.

GET THE LOOK:

Coach Pixy Glaser Graffiti Boot. Color: grey, multi. $115 at Macy’s.:  400 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, 425- 688-6000; www.coach.com/.

Pelican pink Sperry boot, $69.95 at Nordstrom, 100 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, 425-455-5800; www.sperrytopsider.com/store/.

Women’s Rubberware. On sale for $24.97 at Fred Meyer: 2041 148th Ave. NE, Bellevue, 425-865-8560; www.fredmeyer.com/.

Hunter boots in Royal Purple, $125 at Nordstrom.  100 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, 425-455-5800; http://usa.hunter-boot.com/1/Welcome-To-The-Home-Of-Hunter-Wellies.aspx.

Stylish guests attended Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) on Thursday, Sept. 8 at The Shops at The Bravern. This global event was created in 2009 in NYC by Vogue Editor Anna Wintour, with the goal of putting excitement back into the retail industry.

FNO is now a global event from New York to Seattle, Australia to Russia. Upon arriving on the red carpet in Bellevue, guests had the opportunity to pose for that perfect photo and be interviewed on camera by Joan Kelly and Duell Fisher.

The highlight for many of us was the runway fashion show at Neiman Marcus, where beautiful models wore the key trends for fall 2011. The “Lady Chic” look stood out: pumps, pencil skirts, dresses, leather pants and skirts, fur collars and shrugs and handheld handbags.

The new hot color for fall is Bordeaux. All shades of burgundy, red, and pink accents, were showcased with shoes, sweaters, necklaces and cuffs and leather gloves. FNO was a memorable evening where everyone took the time to be seen by wearing the perfect outfit

These guests know how to look perfect on the red carpet. They selected the right outfit that nicely  showcased their body silhouette and their photo pose and smile shows that they are comfortable being in the spotlight.

Rose Dennis is a Greater Seattle style icon. Singled out by numerous publications, such as Seattle Magazine, she’s been crowned as Seattle’s Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker.

Molly Mesnick with fashion stylist Darcy Camden

Ian MacNeil, Elizabeth Waldron-Nagy, Christian Shevchenko and Joan Kelly

Alain Garcia and Darnell Sue