ARTS + CULTURE TRAILBLAZERS OF STYLE
SHOPPING
BETTER BASICS FOR A BETTER PLANET
STYLE + BEAUTY ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET
Brand New Home in Kirkland
A Special Milestone
This month marks a special milestone. Taylor Robinson (pictured with me above), who has worked as my editorial coordinator for over 4 years, is stepping in as publisher of Bellevue Lifestyle starting with the October issue. Since the launch of Bellevue Lifestyle over 7 years ago, this magazine and community have grown to represent a special place in my life personally and professionally. I’m confident in Taylor’s ability to lead Bellevue Lifestyle into the next 7 years and beyond, and I’m excited to see what she does. Thank you for welcoming me into your homes and sharing your stories. I will still be around and will remain publisher of Kirkland Lifestyle, please reach out anytime!
In this months issue, we take a closer look at what it means to be fashionable – not just with trends, but the broader stories behind design and style. Because how we express ourselves matters, and what we choose to spend our dollars on reflects not only our personal expression, but also our values. Everyone has a personal style; some are just more skilled and attuned to expressing it than others. It’s a way to connect and to be seen. For some, a way to stand out, for some a way to blend in. As you thumb through these pages, we hope to inspire and delight you into new ways of sharing your own creative spirit.
CAITLIN AGNEW, PUBLISHER
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Abbi Sulaski, Haley Williams
CONTRIBUTNG PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andria Lindquist, Cassandra Castaneda, Corrine Catania, Poppy & Co by Kelsey Huffer
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Duevall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster Learn
B E S T O F B E L L E V U E 2 0 2 4
SCAN QR CODE TO CAST YOUR VOTE
Every vote counts Anyone can win
Voting is open until October 4th, 2024.
Winners announced in our December 2024 issue.
inside the issue
city scene
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Seattle Grand Opening 1: Aly Jiwani (Managing Partner of OpenRoad NW) and Christian Chia (CEO of OpenRoad Group) in front of the Rolls-Royce flower back wall. 2: Lower showroom featuring Cullinan, Black Badge Cullinan, Phantom, and Spectre models. 3: Customized bourbon cocktail with a Rolls-Royce monogram ice cube. 4: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Seattle Grand Opening ribbon cutting ceremony. Left to right: Aly Jiwani, Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson, Christian Chia and Martin Fritsches. 5: Live music featuring DJ Blast. 6: Customized 7’ Rolls-Royce ice bar with a Rolls-Royce monogram luge. 7: Martin Fritsches (CEO and President of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Americas) signing the live painting at the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Seattle Grand Opening.
BDA’s Annual State of the City 8: Guests enjoying breakfast, eager for updates on the City’s Comprehensive Plan. 9: Bellevue Mayor Robinson and Bellevue Deputy Mayor Malakoutian discuss unlocking more of Bellevue’s potential. 10: Bellevue Deputy Mayor, Mo Malakoutian, engaging in conversation with a community member. 11: Leaders from Bellevue community networking before the State of the City event on June 25th. 12: Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson updates the community on improving multi-modal transportation and safety progress. 13: Bellevue Mayor Robinson and Bellevue Deputy Mayor Malakoutian discuss city updates with BDA President Patrick Bannon. 14: Thank you to our series partners Amazon, Heritage Bank, Kaiser Permanente, and Sterling Realty Organization.
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi 6th Anniversary Celebration 15: Guests chose from two photo booth backdrops and pose with Iger, the Burmese Mountain Dog. 16: An ode to Ascend’s sixth anniversary, the party featured a life-size yearbook and superlatives featuring and celebrating the team. 17: Top 40s hits band, SWAY, performed everyone’s favorite songs in the dining room. 18: A wide variety of imaginative desserts were paired next to a 9-hole mini golf course. 19: A whole roasted pig on display at one of the event’s six culinary stations. 20: The DIY Tiki Bar encouraged guests to build their own drinks with an assist from Ascend’s mixologists. 21: Bellevue Family 4th fireworks show was spectacular at eye-level for Ascend’s guests.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
TAG
JASON GOLDFARB PHOTOGRAPHY
business monthly
ROUNDUP
Tom Bihn Opens Flagship Store at The Bellevue Collection
Coming late summer, Seattle-based outdoor bag maker Tom Bihn is opening its first flagship store at The Bellevue Collection! Founded in 1982 on principles of sustainability, Tom Bihn crafts high-quality, locally made bags at its headquarters in Seattle’s Industrial District. The brand is known for its outdoor-focused backpacks, travel bags and totes made from premium materials. At Bellevue Square, the store will be located on the first floor near Fireworks.
3rd Annual Bellevue Schools Foundation Block Party
Join the 3rd Annual Bellevue Schools Foundation Block Party on September 28th at Downtown Bellevue Park from 11 am to 4 pm. Enjoy live music, exciting games and activities for all ages, along with tasty treats from local food trucks. This event supports the foundation's mission to enhance educational opportunities for every student. Don't miss out on a day of community spirit and fun. Mark your calendar and join us for the BSF Block Party 2024!
Fall Fashion & Global Flair: Fashion Week at The Collection
The Pacific Northwest’s premier fashion event returns Oct. 4 & 5! Witness runway shows inspired by the world's iconic fashion capitals, enjoy beauty and fitness events and support local nonprofits. The Trend Takeover Runway Show (Oct. 4th) features travel-inspired looks, while The Collective Runway Show (Oct. 5th) showcases global trends with a Pacific Northwest twist. All ticket sales benefit local nonprofits WWIN and KidsQuest Children’s Museum. Learn more and purchase tickets at bellevuecollection. com/fashion-week
Photography by The Bellevue Collection
Tommy Bahama Launches Indigo Palms Collection for Fall 2024
Tommy Bahama's Indigo Palms collection for Fall 2024 aims to redefine denim as a year-round staple, blending comfort, style, and sustainability. The line features modern fits like straight and relaxed legs, alongside innovative washes and eco-friendly fabrics. Men can expect enhanced comfort in jeans and a range of apparel, while women enjoy on-trend silhouettes. Indigo Palms aims to integrate seamlessly with Tommy Bahama's broader lifestyle offerings. Shop at select Tommy Bahama stores nationwide and at tommybahama.com
Photography by Tommy Bahama
Saving Great Animals’ 8th Annual Bark Benefit
The 8th Annual Bark Benefit will take place on September 21st at Meydenbauer Center in support of Saving Great Animals, a highly regarded local foster-based dog rescue. Saving Great Animals rescues dogs from neglect, abandonment and abuse. Through their unique rehabilitation and transition process, they help find dogs in need a safe forever home.
Telehealth Consultations Available for Natural Herbal Treatments
Dr. Sandy Johnson (above) now offers telehealth consultations for natural herbal treatments that help with hair loss, weight loss and more. The herbal treatments help improve Post-COVID hair loss, balance hormones related to hair loss, increase the nutrient supply to hair follicles for regrowth and invigorate the scalp for thicker, fuller hair. The herbs also address and improve specific men’s health issues and promote weight loss for both men and women. For more information call (541)-383-8040.
SKINNY SHOT FOR WEIGHT LOSS
We help you accelerate your weight loss goals by providing skinny shots (tirzepatide injections) that use your body’s natural processes to help:
• Regulate appetite
• Prolong feeling full
• Reduce stubborn fat Book your weight management appointment at The Larrabee Center and get 10% OFF a microneedling treatment.
To achieve the best results, consider staying hydrated, exercising regularly, enjoying a variety of healthy foods, and eating slowly. Individual results may vary.
TRAILBLAZERS
OF STYLE
These local independent fashion designers are passionate about creating authentic brands with bold style.
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN SCHULZ
Dress by Mabel Brempong
MABEL BREMPONG BY SANDRA GUNGALOO AND LINDA-ROSE MICHEL JACKSON
Mabel Brempong celebrates elegance, authenticity, and social impact. Founder and CEO, Sandra Gungaloo, along with partner & Creative Director, Linda-Rose Michel Jackson, began their design journeys as children, both inspired by their mothers’ and grandmothers’ fashion influences.
“Our style blends timeless elegance with whimsical femininity, playing with organic shapes, silhouettes, and intricate detailing. We design original prints to tell each collection’s story and create versatile, multi-wear pieces for the woman who appreciates a refined and curated style and wardrobe,” says Sandra.
A few of their proudest achievements over the past few years have been showcasing Mabel Brempong at Coterie New York, redefining and launching a new direct-to-consumer website, and moving manufacturing to Italy to emphasize their commitment to quality, premium materials, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Currently, Sandra and Linda-Rose are finalizing their exquisite Wildflower collection and preparing for an exclusive showcase at Coterie New York to bring their designs to a global market.
Learn more at mabelbrempong.com or on Instagram @themabelbrempong
Linda-Rose Michel Jackson, Creative Director & Partner
Photo by Clara Höhne
Sandra Gungaloo, Founder & CEO
Photo by Patrick Tak
After a 13-year couture career, Angeline Brunk took a leap a faith, sold everything, and moved to Italy with no clear path. Immersed in European fashion and art, her journey unexpectedly ignited a vision which led to another leap of faith of developing a small fashion collection in Italy, which she launched in Kirkland last February.
Angeline is drawn to curves and finding balance in asymmetry. She likes to design with fluid lines that organically sculpt the body in unexpected ways. “I find value in design that takes an unexpected turn and perhaps makes you think about something you hadn’t before,” says Angeline.
Currently, Angeline is working on an ongoing innovation project with some incredible teams in Italy, as well as locally building her business and hosting client consultations and fittings. “I’m learning what my clients truly crave for an ideal creative environment, so that I can meet that demand with an experience distinctly different from typical consumer shopping. I want it to feel like an intimate invitation to dream up your most exciting look with your designer friend,” says Angeline.
Learn more at angelinebrunk.com or on Instagram @angelinebrunkstudio, @angelinebrunk
ANGELINE BRUNK
Designer Angeline Brunk, photographer Andria Lindquist
Photographer Corinne Catania, model Zhenya at SMG Models, hair by Geraldine Legaspi, makeup by Zhenya Kiselev.
Deyonté Weather’s journey has been one of creativity, resilience, and unwavering passion. Early on, Deyonté realized his true calling lay in design; from growing up in Chicago in the 80s and 90s, being inspired by his mother Wendy’s impeccable fashion sense and his family’s stylish attire.
At 19, Deyonté moved to Seattle and laid the foundation for his brand—the Deyonté Weather Collection (DWC). His dream materialized when he graced the runway of Project Runway Season 16, a testament to hard work and unwavering commitment. Locally, this year his hard work was honored at The Bellevue Collection for Black History Month with an Exhibit throughout Bellevue Square where his garments were on display.
Deyonté is inspired by technology, the elements, and the enigmatic mysteries of our world. “DWC stands out as more than a label; it’s a legacy—a fusion of urban couture, luxury, and meaningful storytelling. The brand extends beyond fleeting trends; it’s a narrative—a story told through fabric, stitch by stitch,” says Deyonté.
Learn more at dwccollection.com or Instagram at @dwccollection
DW COLLECTION BY DEYONTÉ WEATHER
Designer Deyonte Weather
Model: Destiny Al-Jararheh
Model: Sophia Carkonen
BETTER BASICS FOR A Better Planet
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FASHION JOURNEY. I grew up in LA, graduated with a degree in Economics from Cornell University, and moved to NYC where I started my career in the fashion industry at Macy’s as a Product Assistant in New York. Over the last 20 years, I have a proven track record of successfully building, launching, and operating multi-million-dollar fashion brands and products from the ground up for retailers including Amazon and Macy’s.
I was frustrated by the damage done to the environment by the fashion industry and knew that there was a better way. Proto101 started with the idea to perfect the ultimate wardrobe staple – the basic tee. The perfect fabric, fit(s), and performance that is mindfully crafted from high quality, sustainable materials with minimal environmental impact. And most importantly, clothes that make you feel great when you’re wearing it. The focus from the very beginning was to build sustainable practices into the product and business from design to production. Better basics for a better planet.
PROTO101’S BELLEVUE SQUARE LOCATION RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY. BELLEVUE LIFESTYLE CAUGHT UP WITH FOUNDER LIYIN KOK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BRAND.
Founder Liyin Kok
Photo by Gabrielle Ann Photography
WHAT IS PROTO101’S MISSION?
Proto101’s mission is to create apparel with mindfully engineered fabrics and designs. We strive to offer sustainable alternatives to disposable, “fast” fashion by sourcing eco-friendly fabrics, making durable garments in timeless silhouettes, supporting an ethical supply-chain, and amplifying minority voices. Proto101 also plants one tree for every garment sold. The brand offers built-tolast basics like tees, sweats, dresses in timeless silhouettes, constructed for comfort and function. All garments are made with high-quality, non-toxic materials.
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
The designs are constantly being evaluated and tweaked - part of the process is to continually improve our products through customer feedback, market research, and analytics. I approach product development with a blend of data, experience, and ensuring the customer is at the center of all my decisions so we are constantly listening to what they need whether that is about fit, fabric, color, and style.
Proto101 will be launching new styles in our French Terry collection this year in time for the Holiday season. I’m also excited to share we are working on a new category – sustainable denim. Denim is the next category to complete the essential wardrobe and our customers have been asking us for staple since the brand launched. Denim is currently still in development and expected to launch sometime in late 2025 so stay tuned!
Stop by the Bellevue Square location or learn more at proto101official.com or on Instagram and Facebook @proto101official
hacks HAIR
Braids to Keep You Chic All Year Long
Braids are a great way to add style and uniqueness to your hair style rotation and have been a staple in hair styles dating back to the 3500 B.C. This historical hairstyle is here to stay, so we wanted to share some go-to impressive looks.
ARTICLE
BY
ABBI SULASKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY POPPY & CO. BY KELSEY HUFFER
simple bandana braid in a braids pony-tail
Place a bandana on the forehead and tie it in the back. Create as many braids as desired in the back of the head, teasing the ends to avoid using elastics.
CONTINUED >
Part a mohawk section of hair down the center of the head. Create a French braid down the middle. For a thicker-looking braid, gently pull on the strands working your way up and down the braid. Pull it back into a ponytail for a simple and trendy look.
pull through braid with space buns
Part hair down the center. Create pullthrough braids on each side of the head. Tie elastic at the end of the braids to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. For extra volume in the buns, tease the hair in the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Secure with hair pins and... Voilà!
simpleupdo
Part the hair down the center or side part, if preferred. Create braid(s) on the side of the head and secure with elastic. Twist the hair with braids into a simple bun, securing it with hair pins. Add an accessory for a classy touch.
SEPTEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 2ND
Yoga in the Park
Bellevue Downtown Park | 9:30 AM
Yoga in the Park offers $5 Vinyasa Flow classes every Saturday at 10 a.m. Held at designated spots marked by "Yoga in the Park" banners, the sessions foster community and accessibility to yoga. Participants enjoy meditation, breathwork, and gentle movement amidst nature, making it an ideal way to connect with others and unwind outdoors. For more details visit bellevuedowntown. com/do/5-yoga-in-the-park.
SEPTEMBER 3RD
BSD: First Day of School
Bellevue School District
It's #backtoschool time! The Bellevue School District welcomes back students for another wonderful year in learning, in grades 1-12 on September 3rd, kindergarten on September 6th and Pre-K on September 9th. To stay up to date on district-wide events and school events, visit bsd405.org
SEPTEMBER 5TH
Bellevue Farmers Market
Bellevue Presbyterian Church | 3:00 PM
Each market day is composed of its own unique mix of vendors offering seasonal fruits & vegetables, cut flowers, fresh meats, one-of-a-kind artisan goods and tasty cuisine. All BFM vendors grow and make the products they sell, and we are proud to say everything sold at our market comes from within the great state of Washington. Join us every Thursday from 3-7 pm!
SEPTEMBER 7TH
2024 Newcastle Days
Lake Boren Park | 10:00 AM
Newcastle Days, held annually in September at Lake Boren Park, commemorates Newcastle's establishment as a city in 1994. The festival features activities, food, games, music, and community spirit, welcoming all ages to celebrate together. It's a cherished tradition to honor Newcastle's history and foster a vibrant sense of community, culminating this year in the city's 30th anniversary celebrations.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Ascend Summer
Social Patio Series
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi | 2:30 PM
Elevate your summer experience to Ascend Prime's Summer Social! This four-part patio party series occurs 3-5pm on the second Saturday of each month, June through September! At each monthly patio party, you're invited to sip from a curated selection of rare and exclusive wines, guided by Ascend's wine team, and paired with seasonal bites, culinary demonstrations, music, and more. Purchase tickets at ascendprime.com
SEPTEMBER 26TH
2024 Eastside Leadership Conference
Microsoft Conference Center | 8:00 AM
Experience a day of insights from industry leaders, technological innovators, high-level business professionals, and policy makers at the 2024 Eastside Leadership Conference. Join the Bellevue Chamber on Thursday, September 26th at the Microsoft Conference Center from 8 am to 2 pm. For events details and registration visit bellevuechamber.org
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ BELLEVUE
ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET
4 WAYS TO ORGANIZE AND INJECT STYLE INTO YOUR SPACE
Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.
MAKE A STATEMENT ORGANIZE BY KIND AND COLOR
Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.
01 02 04
Group clothes first by kind and color second. Group like with like and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.
UPGRADED HANGERS 03
The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!
FACE CLOTHES THE SAME DIRECTION
It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.
ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA
DESTINATION:
Architect Bob Hoshide with Hoshide Wanzer Architects
designer D’neka Patten with Hoshide Wanzer Architects