Food & Drink
Stylish Shopping in Madison Valley
Luxurious vintage, global-chic jewelry and unbeatable kids’ consignment are the pride of the valley.
By Seattle Mag August 15, 2012
This article originally appeared in the September 2012 issue of Seattle magazine.
The first stop in the Madison Valley is, hands down, the best place in the neighborhood for an amazing deal. (1) Sugarlump stocks racks upon racks of button-cute and barely worn consignment kids’ clothes, with prices topping out at $40 (for maternity wear), but most falling in the range of $10 or- less. It also stocks new accessories, such as ruffly pink socks, cotton tights and handmade boys’ ties in fun patterns by Urban Sunday ($22.95).
Down the hill on the next block, the new, second location of über-chic Bellevue boutique (2) Jarbo provides a point of purchase for the luxurious Jarbo collection of knits and separates, followed by (3) Fury: Extraordinary Women’s Consignment across the street, where the grown-up set can stumble upon all manner of impossible-to-pass-up finds.
If the baubles you see at (4) River Song inspire visions of far-off places, that’s no accident: Owner and designer River Burke creates metal and gemstone pieces inspired by her travels, with a trip to Turkey informing this fall’s collection ($145–$450).
Next door, Lisa Vian Hunter creates original, New Look-style designs ($95–$395) based on her favorite era, the late 1950s and early ’60s, at her shop (5) Vian Hunter. She also stocks an eye-popping selection of vintage frocks worthy of Jackie Kennedy herself (see above).
Cross the bridge over the ravine, past Lake Washington Boulevard, to take on the second leg of the valley to the northeast. (7) Canopy Blue knows how to treat a lady who’s on her way out of town. This destination spot for resort wear has lots of light basics, as well as cute dresses and blouses. Danielle Ackerley, who recently took over the boutique’s ownership, has diversified the selection by adding jewelry with a little more edge and has plans to introduce a long-running series of events, from fashion shows to special group nights and charity benefits.
Beauty bonus
After being such a super shopping trouper, you definitely owe yourself a little R&R at (6) Frenchy’s Day Spa, a longtime favorite pamper palace for girl dates, bridal parties and neighborhood dames alike, and at press time, a men’s night was in the works as well. Pedis here are a no-joke, hourlong deal ($40 for a classic). You’re welcome to just walk your “dogs” right in, but if you’re coming on a weekend, it’s best to make an appointment in advance.
Park and go
Free, two-hour street parking is the norm along Madison Avenue, so find yourself a comfy spot on the 26th Avenue E block, put on your walking shoes and go the distance of the valley.
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