Mercer Island, WA September 2023

Mercer Island

Fashion Haven: Hip Zephyr

LIFE + CULTURE

REMEMBERING CANTOR BRAD KURLAND

FOOD + BEVERAGE STYLISH MOCKTAIL RECIPES

STYLE + BEAUTY

HIDDEN GEM: CARIN SUSANN DESIGNS

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS

SEPTEMBER 2023

Welcome to September

Dear Readers,

We're pleased to present our September Style edition, which attempts to capture the spirit of fashion in our community.

We open with a feature that transports us to Hip Zephyr, a beloved boutique on Mercer Island. Through vivid storytelling, we're given a glimpse into the passion, care and style expertise that owner Dana infuses into every customer interaction. Her commitment to making women feel confident shines through.

We then move to a touching tribute to Cantor Brad Kurland of Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation, who recently passed away after serving the Mercer Island Jewish community for nearly 40 years. Co-authored by Vivian Blum, this piece highlights Brad's warmth, spirit, voice and ability to connect meaningfully with people through Jewish tradition and music. His memory will remain a blessing. We'd like to offer special thanks to Vivian for spearheading this tribute.

In our profile on Carin Parcel, we follow her inspiring journey from intellectual property lawyer to accomplished jewelry designer. With a lifelong fascination for colored gems, Carin brings a unique perspective to her artfully crafted accessories. Her new line, Carin Susann Designs, embodies fluid, elegant style for the modern woman.

In Peeved Pets, we get an important reminder that fashion should never come at the cost of animal comfort or safety. Skipping the matching accessories and trendy clothes, and opting for high-quality basics, is the way to keep pets happy and looking their best.

For foodies, Culinary Couture provides inspiration for stylish mocktail recipes perfect for the fashion-forward host or hostess. And a historical look at The Little Black Dress gives insight into the origins and versatility of this iconic wardrobe staple.

This edition runs the gamut in exploring style and fashion in ways both fun and moving. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Our goal is always to inform and connect you with the people and places that make our community vibrant.

As always, if you have feedback or suggests for future content, please reach out to us. We welcome your input!

Thank you for allowing us into your homes and lives each month.

Sincerely,

MIKE, EDITOR AND CHRIS, PUBLISHER @MERCERISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michael Stein | michael.stein@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Olivia Tipton, Peter Brown, Vivian Blum

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Olivia Tipton, Carin Parcel, Dana Smith, Dafna Tarlowe, Glindon Marten, Talby Gelb, Yasmeen Neyfeh, Shana Novak

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

“We love the way our dining porch celebrates the early morning sunlight but keeps us sheltered from the weather — perfect indoor outdoor living just like we dreamed of.”

Inspiring Traditional Living

Embrace the charm of the past and the promise of the future. Step into a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, where the echoes of tradition inspire a new era of architectural marvels that respect a valued heritage of design precedent.

Schedule a consultation at get.AOMEArchitects.com/dreamhome to find out how you can start turning a vision into the home of your dreams—and how to avoid mistakes along the way.

Homeowner

— Marta

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: In memory of Cantor Brad Kurland. 2: Cantor Kurland Purim 2004 3: Cantor Kurland at Bat Mitzvah 4: 2007, “Eastside Story,” with Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum 5: The Purim holiday is a very festive event at Herzl-Ner Tamid. 6: 2017, “Game of Cohens” 7: Cantor Kurland at Herzl morning service, with Carl Berkenwald and “Flat “Stanley”

DAVID GELB

BLUE FISH RED FISH PHOTOGRAPHY

CARL BERKENWALD

CARL BERKENWALD

CARL BERKENWALD

CARL BERKENWALD

CARL BERKENWALD

8-11: Youth Theatre Northwest Summer of Horror Program. 12-14: YTN, The Addams Family: High School Edition

KIM DOUTHIT AND MICHAEL YAKOVICH

KIM DOUTHIT AND MICHAEL YAKOVICH

KIM DOUTHIT AND MICHAEL YAKOVICH

KIM DOUTHIT AND MICHAEL YAKOVICH

MIMI KATANO AND NICOLE SLEIERS

MIMI KATANO AND NICOLE SLEIERS

MIMI KATANO AND NICOLE SLEIERS

Music in the Park, at Mercerdale Park 19: Summer Celebration, with Mercer Island Schools Foundation 20: Summer Celebration with Gabriella Sandoval, USOA Miss Washington and staff member at Mercer Island Chiropractic 21: That’s a wrap for Summer Celebration 2023!

MERCER ISLAND PARKS DEPT.

MISF

MICHAEL STEIN

ANNA HIATT

OVER THE YEARS

Ever wonder how much your home has appreciated? Let’s take a look at the median sales price for the last 23 years:

This is a simple comparison to give you an idea of how much equity you may have gained on your Mercer Island home. Please call me if you would like a customized market analysis of your home.

2ND QUARTER REVIEW OF The Mercer Island Market

MERCER ISLAND FASHION HAVEN

Discovering

Hip Zephyr Boutique

ARTICLE BY CHRIS ISHII | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANA SMITH

As I stepped into the charming world of Hip Zephyr, a boutique women's apparel store nestled on Mercer Island, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere. Hip Zephyr was not just any boutique; it is a place where connections are forged through a shared love for fashion.

Dana, the owner of Hip Zephyr, operates as a trusted advisor and fashionista for her clientele. With her keen eye for style and an answer for everything, she had spent 15 years honing her craft, learning from trial and error to understand what works and what doesn't. From hem lengths and height

New cashmere Zadig Voltaire for Fall

Calleen Cordero Leathers

Calleen Cordero, and candles by Himalayan

Dana and Granddaughter, future HZ partner?

ratios to heel height suggestions, Dana effortlessly guides her customers towards finding their perfect ensembles.

Dana's started in Phinney Ridge as a Registered Nurse pursuing her dream career in Fashion. After 6 years, while living on Mercer Island, she learned that the local women's boutique owner was retiring. Dana sprang into action, left her position as an RN, and moved her store nine years ago. Hip Zephyr was born.

As the seasons changed and new trends emerged, Hip Zephyr continued to flourish.

"Boutiques are supposed to be ahead on the fashion curve." Dana is adamant about keeping her focus on practical, versatile, comfortable clothing that makes you feel and look good.

Dana's dedication and business acumen propelled the boutique to new heights. May 2023 became a milestone as it marked the best month in Hip Zephyr's 15-year history—an achievement that spoke volumes about the store's growing popularity and loyal customer base.

It was evident that the boutique's success was not solely based on sales but most importantly because of the way customers feel about the experience. I witnessed it firsthand. The interaction between Dana and a customer was like they'd known each other for years. After she left, I asked Dana how long she'd been a customer. Dana replied, "This was her first visit to the store."

The customer experience at Hip Zephyr is unparalleled. Dana exudes confidence and knowledge, leaving no fashion stone unturned and her expertise extends beyond the boundaries of the boutique. I witnessed her providing holistic advice that included a recommendation to other retailers for a customer's upcoming trip to Patagonia.

What struck me most was the attention to detail and personal touch that permeated every interaction. Dana and her assistant manager, Amy, took the time to get to know their customers, offering 24-hour holds on items for better decision making and setting aside outfits to be tried on. They even suggested bringing in their own clothes to see what the outfit looks like in its totality. Their recommendations were well received, as they had the perfect feel for everyone’s unique style and needs.

In terms of fashion offerings, Hip Zephyr has the right brands, making it a go-to destination for lovers of fashion. From leather boots that are both adorable and comfortable to versatile pieces from international labels like Masons, Raffaello Rossi, and Zadig & Voltaire, the boutique is a treasure trove of unique and edgy items.  "It's those international brands that make us unique.” Dana's frequent buying trips to LA ensure a constant flow of fresh and exciting designs that keep customers coming back.

One of the standout features of Hip Zephyr is their commitment to customer satisfaction. They offer sizes ranging from XS to XL, catering to diverse body types. Dana understands the hesitations people have about boutiques due to past bad experiences, and she makes it a priority to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. All the employees at Hip Zephyr are also loyal customers themselves, embodying the passion and belief in the boutique's mission.

Beyond clothing, Hip Zephyr also offers candles, handbags, leather belts, accessories, shoes, and boots, providing a one-stop-shop for fashion enthusiasts.

"Boutiques are supposed to be ahead on the fashion curve." Dana is adamant about keeping her focus on practical, versatile, comfortable clothing that makes you feel and look good.

Favorite

Dazzlers!

Ready for Fall

Western Casual

Shoto Boots from Italy

Hip Zephyr | Laura, Dana, Suzanne and Amy. Missing Megan, Stephanie and Lisa

Jeans |Mother, Citizen, AG, Fidelity and Masons

Mother Denim and Mauritius Jacket

Tennies

Suede top from Jakett and Mother denim | Megan, HZ team

As I left Hip Zephyr, I couldn't help but feel inspired by Dana's journey—a single parent turned successful businesswoman. Her support system and the belief she found in herself propelled her to pursue her passion for fashion marketing and create a thriving boutique. Hip Zephyr had grown from a small store in Seattle to a spacious haven on Mercer Island for style-seekers, all thanks to Dana's unwavering dedication.

To all the fashionable women out there who want to look good and feel great, Hip Zephyr awaits you. Whether you're searching for the perfect ensemble, seeking fashion advice, or simply looking to be part of a welcoming shopping experience, this boutique will surpass your expectations. Step inside and let Dana and her team guide you on a fashion journey like no other. With their curated selection, personalized service, and genuine passion for helping women feel their best, Hip Zephyr is truly a fashion haven.

Purses | Hammitt, Oliveve, Calleen Cordero and David Galan

Look for "Hip Zephyr" at 2727 78th Ave SE

Little black dress from Hale Bob

ARTICLE BY VIVIAN BLUM AND MICHAEL STEIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAFNA TARLOWE, GLINDON MARTEN, TALBY GELB

The Spirit of Song:

Remembering Cantor Brad Kurland

Cantor Brad Curland

For close to four decades, the melodic sounds of Cantor Bradlee Kurland's voice drifted down from the bimah at Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation, lifting the spirits of the congregants and enriching their Jewish lives through song. But beyond his wonderful voice and musical talents, it was Cantor Brad's warm personality, genuine care for people, and ability to instill meaning and comfort through Jewish ritual that truly made him a beloved figure in the Mercer Island Jewish community.

THE SPIRIT OF HERZL-NER TAMID

For 39 years, Cantor Bradlee Kurland breathed life and spirit into Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation on Mercer Island. His warm and welcoming personality, love for music and Jewish tradition, and ability to connect with people of all ages made him a beloved figure in the community.

Brad, as he was affectionately known, served as cantor and music director at Herzl-Ner Tamid from 1984 until his passing this past May at 68 years old. In that time, he officiated at countless life cycle events for congregants,including weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, baby namings and funerals. But his presence went far beyond officiating at services. His smile, sense of humor and joy at simply being with the community endeared him to members young and old.

"He truly had a way to make everyone he encountered feel special," said Mickey Friedman, president of HerzlNer Tamid. "We were all lucky to have him in our lives."

Brad's voice, warm personality and ability to transform even the most mundane of rituals into meaningful experiences left an indelible mark on Herzl-Ner Tamid and the entire Mercer Island Jewish community. "He was the spirit of our Herzl community," one congregant said.

Although his physical presence is gone, the spirit and memory of Cantor Bradlee Kurland will remain forever in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. His memory is indeed a blessing.

CONTINUED >

Brad playing for kids

(Photo by Dafna Tarlowe)

Cantor Kurland's role within Herzl-Ner Tamid made him a prominent figure within the broader Mercer Island Jewish community. His music, personality and pastoral care touched many people, reaching Jewish families across the island. His passing is a loss, not just for Herzl-Ner Tamid but for the greater Seattle Jewish community.

Brad and family

A LIFE IN JEWISH TRADITION, MUSIC AND COMMUNITY

Brad was raised in Swampscott, Massachusetts and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science at Yeshiva University in New York. He had a great love of music, but his true commitment was to Jewish learning. What mattered most to him was passing on Jewish traditions and knowledge.

In addition, Brad received a Bachelor of Hebrew Literature degree from Hebrew College in Boston. Following his undergraduate career, Brad received a Master of Education degree at Salem State University in Massachusetts. Subsequently, he entered cantorial school at the Jewish Theological Seminary, an intensive program for aspiring cantors. He graduated from JTS in 1984 and took a position as cantor at Herzl-Ner Tamid. Recently he received an honorary doctorate degree from JTS.

During his high school and college years, Brad volunteered to entertain the sick and elderly at various organizations including the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center where he served as the assistant to the rabbi. Brad’s musical interests included folk dancing and he was a member of the Zamir Chorale, a world-famous choral group.

As an excellent Torah reader Brad led congregational services, officiated at life cycle events, taught Hebrew school classes, coached Bar and Bat Mitzvah students. Part of his official duties included visiting congregants in hospitals and nursing homes. Beyond Herzl-Ner Tamid, Brad served on the boards of various Jewish organizations and mentored younger cantors, teaching them skills needed to connect with and inspire communities.

Despite his many accomplishments, Brad's humility, warmth, and genuine care for people remained his most defining qualities. The outpouring of love and gratitude expressed by members of Herzl-Ner Tamid and the broader community following his passing speaks volumes about the positive impact Brad had on so many lives.

REMEMBERED WITH LOVE AND GRATITUDE

Scores of congregants shared moving reflections on Cantor Brad following his passing, celebrating his ability to instill joy, comfort and meaning through music, ritual and his mere presence. "Brad brought so much joy to everyone he met," said one congregant. Others described him as "the kindest of all the people on earth" with an "incredible ability to connect with so many of us on a deeply human level."

“There was something about Cantor’s whole persona that radiated this breakout quality, just barely below the surface. We saw it in the gleam in his eyes. We saw it in his smile. We saw it in the way he would rock the bar and bat mitzvah kids back and forth during his mi shebeirach blessing for them. We saw it in his signature ‘Yeahhhh.’ “

“He took a personal interest in the kids, he laughed with them, he encouraged them. No matter what their abilities, he made each child feel that they were wonderful. And, over the course of 39 years, thousands of kids loved Judaism more, loved being Jewish more, because of their relationship with Cantor Kurland.”

“Cantor Kurland was able to convey a deep respect for the traditions of the Jewish people, and the restless, joyous, breakout spirit which has been our hallmark when we have been at our best.”

The outpouring of support for his wife Sandy and their children, Akiva, Talya and Noam from the Jewish community, neighbors, and friends demonstrated the depth of love and gratitude people felt towards Cantor Brad. Herzl-Ner Tamid President Mickey Friedman summed up the community's feelings: "To the Kurland family: Thank you for sharing his love, humor, voice, talents, caring, wisdom, and soul with us for so many years. His memory IS a blessing."

Brad and Sandy

From L to R: David Gelb, Michael Berkenwald, Daniel Shapiro, Elan Shapiro, Cantor Kurland, Evan Bernstein, Lauren Bernstein, Aaron Gelb (Photo by Talby Gelb)

FASHION FORWARD

like the true athletes they are. And there’s the “paw-dorable hat” that both protects your dog from the sun and also makes him or her the center of attention.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our furry friends is of utmost importance, especially when it comes to incorporating style into their lives. Here are some essential pet safety recommendations to consider. Finally, pets aren’t limited to cats and dogs, and similar precautions apply to rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc.

1. Comfort First: While dressing up your pets can be fun and adorable, always prioritize their comfort. Choose clothing and accessories made from soft, breathable fabrics that don’t restrict their movement or cause discomfort.

DRESSING PETS WITH STYLE AND SAFETY

ARTICLE BY PETER BROWN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE

Pets hold a special place in our hearts, providing companionship and love in our lives. Beyond being adorable, our furry friends captivate us with their unique personalities and, surprisingly, distinct sense of style. From chic chihuahuas to the multiple breed combination, pets have a way of expressing themselves through fashion, making them even more endearing.

Style is for all type of pets! Cats, known for their independence, have become trendsetters in the pet fashion world. One of the most popular cat style trends is the “cat-tastic bow tie,” where cats sport dainty bow ties in various  colors. These accessories add a touch of elegance to even the most aloof feline. And let’s not forget the “purr-fectly fashionable collars” adorned with bells, rhinestones, and charms.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and so does their sense of style. Trendsetting pups can be seen wearing the latest canine couture, from stylish sweaters to custom raincoats. For the sporty pups, “athleisure” wear is the rage, with hoodies and tracksuits making them look

2. Proper Fit: Just like with human clothing, the right fit matters for pets too. Avoid outfits that are too tight or too loose, as they can cause chafing or become entangled in their fur, leading to potential injuries.

3. Weather Considerations: Dressing your pets appropriately for the weather is essential. In colder climates, provide them with cozy sweaters or jackets to keep them warm, and in hot weather, opt for lightweight and breathable attire.

4. Avoid Harmful Materials: Be cautious about using accessories with small parts, buttons, or embellishments that could be chewed or swallowed by your pets. Ensure that the materials are pet-safe and non-toxic.

5. Watch for Allergic Reactions: Just like humans, pets can have allergies too. Before introducing any new clothing or accessories, check for any signs of irritation or allergic reactions. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use immediately and consult a veterinarian.

6. Safety During Playtime: Pets love to play, and some might be more adventurous than others. Keep an eye on them during playtime to prevent

any accidents caused by loose clothing or accessories getting caught on objects.

7. Supervision: If your pet is not used to wearing clothes or accessories, introduce them gradually and always supervise them while they have these items on. This way, you can ensure their safety and prevent any potential discomfort or anxiety.

8. Proper Identification: In case your pet ever gets lost, make sure they have proper identification, such as a collar with a tag containing their name and your contact information. Microchipping is also a highly recommended safety measure.

9. Regular Grooming: If your pet wears clothing or accessories regularly, it’s essential to maintain their grooming routine. Regularly check their fur, especially in areas covered by clothing, to prevent matting or skin issues.

10. Consult with Professionals: If you’re unsure about pet fashion choices or any potential risks, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional. Your veterinarian can provide valuable insights and recommendations for your pet’s well-being.

By keeping these pet safety comments in mind, you can ensure that your pet’s journey into the world of style remains enjoyable and safe.

Sip Sober

THE RISE OF MOCKTAILS

Forget everything you thought you knew about mocktails. The Shirley Temples of yesteryear have given way to a new breed of non-alcoholic drinks that are just as complex, flavorful, and artfully crafted as any cocktail on the menu. Whether you’re craving the bitterness of a negroni or the tropical notes of a mai tai, you can now find mocktail versions that don’t compromise on taste. With creative ingredients like NA spirits and artisanal mixers, many modern mocktails rival their alcoholic counterparts in complexity and presentation. The mocktail renaissance is here - read on as we shake up some recipes from this delicious new world of non-alcoholic mixology.

Mocktails are far from a modern invention. The idea of creating delicious non-alcoholic drinks dates back centuries, with early mocktails consisting of homemade lemonades, teas, and other refreshments. In the 1920s, during the Prohibition era in the United States, mocktails grew in popularity as a creative way to mimic the taste of cocktails without the alcohol. Classic mocktails from this time included virgin versions of the Mary Pickford as well as virgin Pina Coladas and Daiquiris. The mocktail craze died down after Prohibition, but experienced a resurgence in the 1980s as people became more health conscious. While mocktails are having a moment now, their origins trace back to longstanding traditions of creating sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks.

IT’S A SIGN OF THE TIMES…

Mocktails are the new IT GIRL, boldly making their way onto your favorite bar menu. And with how delicious they are, it looks like they are here to stay.

I’m sitting at dinner thumbing through the drink menu. After deciding I’m not in the mood for an alcoholic beverage, I come to a section titled  “Mocktails.” The list isn’t just seltzer and lime or the tired old Shirely Temple. It’s a list of complex and interesting beverages just as thoughtfully designed as their boozy counterparts. I order a non-alcoholic (NA) negroni, and it’s fantastic!

Restaurant goers have begun moving to low and zero proof spirits, a market growing in its visibility and appeal for a number of reasons. Looking to reduce or eliminate alcohol intake, health and wellness concerns, even personal and religious reasons are all possibilities for this shift in consumption. As this self declared Sober Curious movement grows in number the demand for bars, restaurants, even liquor stores to have an offering of good low alcohol and NA options is increasing. Gone are the days of sugary and uninspired juice based drinks. Here are the days of fully conceptualized mocktail menus that rival the care, complexity, and, of course, taste compared to any other beverage on the menu.

The good news is, with the growing availability of these products making fun mocktails at home doesn’t require previous bartending experience. You can whip up your own bougie beverage with ease. We’ve put together a few fun recipes for you to try out, perfect for that end of summer wind down.

ARTICLE BY OLIVIA TIPTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVIA TIPTON, ADOBE

NA Jungle Bird

Badda Bing

Cherry Cola Mocktail

This combination of bitter aperitivo and cola make for a complex and grown up cherry cola. Feeling fancy? Add a scoop of ice cream and make it a float.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 Bing cherries, pitted

• ½ oz Campari style NA spirit

• 1 dropper full NA bitters

• Probiotic cola soda

DIRECTIONS

In a glass, add cherries, Campari, and bitters. Middle until very saucy. Fill the glass with ice and top with soda. Garnish with a cherry and serve.

NA Kentucky Mule

A simple, no fuss mocktail that serves big on flavor.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz NA bourbon spirit

• ½ oz lime juice

• Ginger beer

• Garnish with candied ginger

• Slices of lime

DIRECTIONS

Combine bourbon spirit and lime juice  in a glass over ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a slice of lime and a piece of candied ginger.

The mocktail movement is more than just a trend - it represents a cultural shift toward more mindful drinking and inclusive environments. While the elaborate garnishes and complex recipes are fun, the real value is in creating an experience where everyone feels welcome, not just those imbibing alcohol.

OLIVIA TIPTON

NA Jungle Bird

Tikki drinks aren’t going anywhere, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make a new spin on old classics. The Jungle Bird gives you all the tropical vibes without being overly sweet. It’s perfectly fun and refreshing.

INGREDIENTS

Rich Coconut Syrup

• ½ cup coconut sugar

• ¼ cup boiling water

Combine the coconut sugar with boiling water and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Let cool before using.

• 1/2 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

• 1/2 oz Campari style NA spirit

• 1/4 oz rich coconut syrup

• 8 drops NA Bitters

• Top off with a pineapple soda

• Garnish with cleaned pineapple leaves and a fresh pineapple wedge

• Slices of lime

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredients except the pineapple soda in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until cold. Strain over fresh ice, top with the soda, garnish with a slice of lime, a pineapple leaf and wedge, and serve!

The mocktail movement is more than just a trend - it represents a cultural shift toward more mindful drinking and inclusive environments. While the elaborate garnishes and complex recipes are fun, the real value is in creating an experience where everyone feels welcome, not

Table Culinary Solutions

Olivia Tipton is the founder and owner of Table Culinary Solutions, a company deeply rooted in the belief that food is a catalyst for change. Olivia has spent her professional career working as a product development chef for national brands including Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and SK Food Group. Her work has been featured in media publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, and The Today Show. Along with her passion for menu design and execution, Olivia loves to share her knowledge through culinary education. Working with guests of all ages, she teaches classic techniques helping students feel more confident to explore food and cooking independently. For more food inspiration and to learn more about Olivia’s services visit www.tableculinarysolutions.com.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straight-lined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

From Lawyer to Jewelry Designer

CARIN PARCEL'S INSPIRING CAREER CHANGE

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL STEIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARIN PARCEL

Carin Parcel, founder of Carin Susann Designs, took an unconventional path to becoming a jewelry designer. Originally from Omaha, Carin practiced law in Chicago. During this time, she became fascinated with gemology and enrolled in a distance learning program at the Gemological Institute of America.

Carin’s passion for gemology led her to leave her legal career to pursue working in the jewelry industry. She connected with a Chicago jeweler and embarked on her new adventure in jewelry design. In 2009, Carin moved with her family to the Pacific Northwest where she continued gaining hands-on experience in the field. Carin now resides on Mercer Island with her husband, Andrew, three kids (Sydney, Liam & Dylan) and their Bernedoodle, Guster.

After years honing her skills, Carin launched her own line - Carin Susann Designs. The name cleverly combines her married name with her middle name, pronounced like “Suzanne.”

Carin’s business is mainly online, at carinsusann.com, although you can see her occasionally at a popup shop in the area. The pictures shown her are from a recent popup at Bellevue Club’s Eclipse Boutique.

Carin’s designs aim to complement the wearer’s dynamic moods and changing personal style. Carin eschews the “straight and narrow” in favor of fluid, curved forms with unexpected textures. She sees jewelry as a way to honor the complexities of life and bring out people’s unique attributes.

With her background and passion, Carin is poised to make her mark on the jewelry world. Her inspiring career change shows that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Keep an eye out for Carin’s one-of-a-kind pieces that are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Carin Parcel at Eclipse Boutique Popup

Bellevue Club members and staff shopping at Carin's popup shop

Mercer Island residents at Carin's popup shop

Styling Angie Taylor, owner of Efeste Wines

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

SEPTEMBER 1ST - 4TH

Nintendo Live 2023

SEATTLE CONVENTION

CENTER - ARCH AT 705 PIKE

An all-ages celebration of Nintendo fun!

Share the excitement of playing games together, enjoying live stage performances, and more across a large-scale themed area. Whether you and your family are new to the games, characters, and worlds of Nintendo or are lifelong fans, everyone’s welcome to have fun!

SEPTEMBER 2ND - 3RD

Bumbershoot 2023

SEATTLE CENTER, 305

HARRISON STREET, SEATTLE

The 50th annual edition of Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle, Washington from September 2nd-3rd, 2023. Held at the Seattle Center campus, Bumbershoot will celebrate its 50th anniversary after a three year hiatus with performances from numerous indie rock, punk, soul, folk, emo, and dance groups.

SEPTEMBER 5TH - 7TH

Youth Theatre

Northwest Auditions

4400 86TH AVE SE,

MERCER ISLAND

Auditions for Youth Theatre Northwest's 2023-2024 Season - September 5 - 7 Sign-ups are now open at  youththeatre.org .

STAY WELL

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Mercer Island 2023

ART UNCORKED

GRETA HACKETT OUTDOOR

SCULPTURE PARK | 5:00 PM8:00 PM

Music, Art, Food, Winetasting. Must be 21+ to enter.

Presented by Mercer Island Chamber of Commerce.

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Northwest Ukrainian International Festival 2023

BELLEVUE DOWNTOWN PARK

10:00 AM

Join the largest Ukrainian cultural event on the west coast. Founded in 2016,the annual Northwest Ukrainian International Festival is a celebration of the Northwest’s Ukrainian community and culture!  This event will feature:

• Authentic Ukrainian food along with other delicious snacks.

• Ukrainian customs, including traditional clothing.

• Stage performances from Northwestern states and Ukraine.

• And much more!

OCTOBER 19TH

Night of 1000 Scares

4400 86TH AVE SE, MERCER ISLAND

YTN’s horror films shot with students over the summer premiere October 19th along with a special Halloween-themed performance by Chaos Theory Improv. Tickets at youththeatre.org .

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MercerIsland

BEST IN CLASS PET CARE

BEST IN CLASS PET CARE

VIP MEMBERSHIP

VIP MEMBERSHIP

A members-only club where you get 1:1 vet-led guidance for every stage of your pet’s life & your pet gets best in class preventative care to keep them feeling healthy and happy.

PEACE OF MIND

Don’t worry, we’ll get you in. With priority access for same-day appointments, you’ll have support you can count on to lower the risk of chronic illnesses, improve well being, & reduce stress for both of you.

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE

Our Doctors & Team work with you to build customized plans that target you and your pet’s individual needs throughout every stage of your journey together. Add ons such as a Spay, Neuter, or Dental are available as needed.

PEACE OF MIND AND SO