Prada, Michael, Calvin. It's All About Shoes!

Designer shoes? Here they come... I love these Prada wedges.

Michael Kors heels with studs, the hottest design trend this season!

Dream of a "White Christmas" in these winter white patent heels.

Our Own "Project Runway," and the Winning Designer Is...

Ready for the Goodwill Glitter Gala Design Challenge? Art Institute of Seattle students were given a budget of $75 to shop Seattle Goodwill and then create a design based on one of three films: Austin Powers, Flashdance or Twilight. The winner would have the opportunity to walk the runway on November 5th at Seattle Goodwill's Glitter Gala.

On Tuesday evening people were milling about the Burnley Gallery at the Art Institute on Elliott Ave. Ten designs were modeled informally and then presented individually to the judges. It was inspiring to hear how one designer used a child's rabbit costume as the skirt of a dress; another used a section of comforter as a bustle. The judges conferred out of sight. When they emerged there were four winners--and here they are. Congratulations to all!

Vintage Finds from the Roaring '20s to the Fabulous '50s

Collectors and shoppers will be amazed at this year's selection of vintage and retro clothing. This pastel flapper dress, embroidered and beaded, is full of history.

And here is another pastel dress, but what a difference a few decades make! This 1950's-era prom dress, with frilly tulle detailing, is a remarkable example of its time.

It's Vintage Hattie Carnegie!

Hattie Carnegie was the toast of the town in 1930s New York. A fashion designer (though she never actually learned to sew!) and the owner of Manhattan's most sought-out boutique, Carnegie expanded her empire, from couture to ready-to-wear, then to jewelry and accessories, perfume and cosmetics, and handkerchiefs and hosiery. Her jewelry is still coveted for its sedate glamour, and this necklace and earring set is an exquisite example.

Mr. Blackwell's BEST Dressed List

This incrdible three-piece evening ensemble is a Mr. Blackwell original. (Yes, that Mr. Blackwell, of Blackwell's Worst Dressed List.) It's made of white satin and maribou! You can even see the incredible finishing work here, note the pink velvet trim on the inside lining of the maribou coat.

Remove the coat, and you've got his gorgeous maribou top. But, surprise! You can remove the maribou top as well and...

you've got this sexy spaghetti strap dress in white satin with 5 rows of maribou trim at the hemline. Stunning!

Designer Lovelies

Shoes? We've got them! Racks of shoes in all colors and sizes. The other day I stumbled over a few designer lovelies...

Tod's orange suede pumps. I love the double-stitching, the rickrack edging and the metal chain detail.

Orange suede Prada slip-ons. Utterly decadent!

Black buckle heels from Coach. Look at those grommets! What's your favorite shoe designer? I'll do some digging and see what I come up with!

Amazing Vintage Hats

This funky knitted ball bobs up and down as you walk,

and this little bird looks like it might just fly away.

Vintage shoppers and collectors will find some remarkable hats at this year's Glitter Sale. These vintage hats, made of soft velvet and with a ball and bird topper respectively are from the 1940's. You'll find more vintage and retro hats in amazing colors and styles as well.