Seattle: Where to Shop [I]

I would be a little out of touch if I thought you weren't going to go shopping when you're in Seattle. Frankly, it would be delusional to think that I don't spend a good portion of the time I spend in Seattle trolling the racks in search of adorable dresses and great deals. I love clothes. And shoes. Especially new ones. In that spirit, I've made a list.

When in Seattle, I like to spend my hard-earned money swipe my credit card (who was I kidding?) at these stores. You probably will, too...

Ann Taylor - Pacific Place, 600 Pine Street
You're raising your eyebrows. I know. But let me stop you before you start wondering why I'm recommending somewhere that sells suits. Ann Taylor is, I grant, a purveyor of mom jeans and more suits than I am normally comfortable with. But the chain has redeemed itself in my eyes, for the following two reasons. One: Their line of spring dresses is to die for. Two: They are, in some ways, a haven for girls who are no longer teenagers but not yet full-fledged women. Styles are trendy, but not over-the-top. If you're sick of picking through piles of plaid shirts at what was once your favourite store, or discouraged by your unsuccessful attempts to find a fitted sweater anywhere, leave your preconcieved notions behind and try Ann Taylor. You won't be disappointed.

Anthropologie - 1509 5th Avenue
This store is a haven for girls who like to read. They sell very few books and yet it is a distinctly cerebral place. If Lisa Simpson were not a yellow-skinned cartoon character, I'm sure that she would rely on Anthropologie's shabby chic housewares to decorate her apartment. She might even buy a new red dress or two from the selection on their well-organised racks. Whether the wares attracted a brainy clientele or the brainy clientele demanded a certain type of product is hard to say... it's all chickens and eggs, anyway. Suffice it to say that if you're looking for something unique, be it a pair of shoes, a doorknob or a necklace, Anthropologie is the only place you need to look for it.

Bath and Body Works - Multiple locations in Seattle
I admit it. I actually think that Bath and Body Works is totally obnoxious and I cannot fathom why anyone would bother to queue for an hour just to get a deal on their anti-bacterial hand soap. But I have severe allergies to both fragrances and most soaps, so I'm probably a little biased. In spite of how I feel about the chain, its popularity is undeniable- particularly with cross-border shoppers whose own home cities do not yet have an established location in their own mall- which is why I've included it. Well, that and it does have one- but only one- redeeming quality: C.O. Bigelow Mentha Lip Shine, by far the best lip-gloss money can buy. (The big bonus; it's a bargain, running at about 6$.)

Buffalo Exchange - 4530 University Way NE
Part thrift store, part consignment store, part clothing swap... The concept behind Buffalo Exchange is one of the most brilliant I have ever come across. About a year ago, I was in the process of getting ready to move and had a pile of beautiful, pretty much like-new clothes, none of which had been cheap, that I needed rid myself of, but didn't want to give away. I wanted them to be appreciated. After being laughed out of several consignment boutiques in my hometown because my clothes were "too small," however, it seemed like I wouldn't have many other options than a charity bin. Then I discovered Buffalo Exchange. The store is stocked entirely with items brought in by shoppers. You can trade clothes for cash on the spot- and make more than you would at a consignment store. Or, if thrifting is your thing, you can also trade your old clothes for store credit. (You get more credit than you would get cash, if you choose that option.) If they don't want everything you've brought in, there is a charity bin in the store, too, so you know that your clothes will be going somewhere. I have never bought anything here myself, but I have made money; there are girls in Minneapolis and Seattle wearing my old jeans, and one lucky girl has scored a pair of fabulous red pumps that my feet stubbornly refused to grow into. Prices are extremely affordable but, of course, the stock varies. Still, as far as I'm concerned, Buffalo Exchange is not to be missed.

DSW Shoe Source - 401 Northeast Northgate Way (at Northgate Mall)
Much to my chagrin, I am infinitely practical. I can rationalise buying five pairs of expensive black heels, knowing I will get my money's worth out of them... but when it comes to that one amazing pair of gold platforms, I hesitate, and eventually balk, doubting how much I will wear them. If it weren't for DSW, I might not have any impractical shoes at all! This enormous shoestore is at once completely overwhelming and absolutely inviting. There are literally thousands of brand-name shoes for sale, all at discount prices. To avoid walking away empty-handed because you were spoiled for choice and simply couldn't make a decision- it's happened to me- I suggest going in with an idea of what you want. On my last visit, I made it my mission to find a pair of gladiator sandals. I tried on at least ten pairs before settling on a Steve Madden pair that were bargain priced at less than thirty dollars. Not as practical as I am? Go ahead- buy ten pairs of shoes! It's nothing the sales people haven't seen (or done themselves) before.

Express - Multiple locations in Seattle
I know, I know. The ads you've seen for Express look a little cheap, maybe even a little trashy. I was skeptical myself the first time I visited the store. Frankly, some of their merchandise still makes me raise my eyebrows. But mixed in with those immodestly short gold sequined dresses are good quality, low-priced basics. Stock up on layering pieces and sale items. And if you've always wanted a gold sequined dress but are worried you might not be able to pull it off- or want to pull it off more than once- the prices here are low enough that you won't regret only wearing it once.

Check back tomorrow for more Seattle shopping tips!