CRAVE CRUSH the urban girl's blog to all that you CRAVE

Interview with Kimberly and Carrie Arrington of Clutch

October 30, 2009 by Lilla | Comments (0)

Finding its beginnings with a love for both handbags and fun boutiques, Clutch is the place to find amazing and unique bags in Seattle. Kimberly and Carrie stock the best of smaller, independent handbag designers and strive to provide the best customer service around.  They like to pamper our clients with extras like bottled water and chocolate. The staff is great at helping girls find their perfect bag in a warm and friendly atmosphere.  Make yourselves comfortable!

What are the most popular or best selling products or services?
Treesje, linea pelle and foley + corinna

People may be surprised to know that…
We both are not really into shoes. Don’t get it, I’ve have been wearing the same Fluevogs for eight months mixed in with a couple of treats from Clementines. Carrie goes low with shoes with occasional treats. She loves a deal. We’re not feet people We’re handbag girls.

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?
What? Shoe stores and no handbag shops? There is something missing!

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?
Bumps in the road, but great learning experiences.

How do you spend your free time? What is your indulgence?
Both of us love books, chocolate and handbags!

Best place to find gifts?
Click! and Capers.

Favorite Salon?
Halo.

Best place to buy shoes?
Clementines in West Seattle, of course.

Get Hitched Give Hope – Event this Thursday

October 27, 2009 by Lilla | Comments (2)

We CRAVE all things to do with weddings – flowers, rings, food, planning, gowns, diamonds, cocktails, desserts, the groom, the bride, romance and even bridesmaid dresses.  So when an event comes along that celebrates all of these things and donates to a great charity- we are there!

This Thursday Seattle’s top wedding professionals are gathering to exhibit their services and products with one catch– they must donate a fantastic item for a fab silent auction. Together with items donated by Seattle’s top businesses, money will be raised for a great cause through silent auctions, raffles, and a final, show-stopping live auction. The items up for grabs are not just limited to pre-wedding prep, day-of services, and newlyweds, there are sure to be some great goods for moms, dads, grooms, and friends!!

Where does the money go?? – This year, our goal is to raise $50,000 to grant wishes for stage IV breast cancer patients and their families. It can take $4000 to grant one wish for a small family of 4, let’s grant 12!!

Go to: www.gethitchedgivehope.com to learn more

Pertinent Details:

What: Get Hitched Give Hope
When: October 29th 2009
What Time: 5:30-9:30pm
Where: The Arctic Club Hotel , 700 Third Ave (3rd & Cherry), Seattle, WA 98104
Tickets: Start at $25 (Swag bags available too and are INSANELY COOL!) click here to get yours

Best of Seattle Pet Stores

October 21, 2009 by Nicole S. | Comments (0)

Before you start down your usual holiday shopping list, take some time to spoil your favorite furry companion! Maybe you want to dress up your pet for Halloween, or buy some crave worthy treats for special rewards. These are not your typical pet stores- think of them as pet boutiques with everything you could ever dream up and all the things you never knew your animal needed (until now)!

• Immortal Dog Pet Supply & Bakery features freshly baked goodies for your dog, with flavors that will entice your own appetite. Would your dog prefer garlic cheese, sweet potato bacon or gingerbread? Immortal Dog specializes in pet nutrition and even features dehydrated raw food which is beneficial for dogs with allergies or skin issues. With a price approximately the same as your standard kibble, you can allow your dog to be a little high maintenance without feeling guilty.

• At Zak and Zoe you can search for everything from swanky cat collars to argyle dog sweaters. With lots of yummy snacks to perk up your pouch, this “modern dog mercantile” is a great place to spoil your pet! This is also the perfect spot to dress up your companion for Halloween- my personal favorite is the Hot Dog costume (imagine a daschshund wearing a bun).

• Downtown Dog Lounge services include doggie daycare, boarding, training and grooming so you can be sure your pup is socialized and presentable. They even have an in house vet, groomer and nanny for your “special-needs” dogs! For those who need somewhere to drop your dog off for the day, you can still check in on him or her throughout the day with one of their webcams!

• At PJ’s Paws and Claws dogs need UV protection too (right?!), pick up some Doggles (protective eye wear for dogs) at PJ’s. Your pup will be protected and be the envy of the dog park! Another swanky find- neon orange rubber dog booties! With a huge selection of everything you could ever need for your pet- treats, toys, training tools, grooming and apparel you can one-stop shop either online or in store.

Delish Delights In Seattle

October 13, 2009 by Inna | Comments (0)

Cold weather got you down? Head to your local bakery for fresh, hand-frosted, baked goods that will warm you up from the inside out!

• Le Panier – Everyone knows that french bread and pastries are the creme de la creme of baked goods. Le Panier offers a taste of France from Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market. Pastries, sandwiches, and espresso oh my, stop by for lunch or just a sweet snack.

• Cupcake Royale – With multiple locations around the city and years of experience, Seattle’s original cupcake experts offer you a premium selection of fresh cupcakes and coffee.

• Trophy Cupcakes and Party – Trophy cupcakes are the perfect way to feed your inner child without overindulging your sweet tooth. Trophy Cupcakes is the perfect place to pick up all your supplies next time you host girls night, from cupcakes to decorations! These bite size pieces of heaven will have you coming back for more.

• Macrina Bakery and Cafe – This local favorite has been around for almost 20 years. This is a one stop shop for a wide array of delectable baked goods from cookies, cakes, and pastries

Best of Seattle Jackets for Fall

October 7, 2009 by Inna | Comments (0)

The leaves are starting to change color, the wind is getting a bit crisp, the days are getting shorter, it’s officially Fall. With the transition from summer to fall some changes need to be made to your wardrobe. It’s not warm enough outside for short sleeves anymore so it’s time to find some cute fall jackets. Whether you’re looking for an everyday style jacket or a night on the town jacket these shops have some great finds!

• Turquoise: Situated in the colorful U-District, Turqoise offers affordable modern clothing to fit even the most modest budget.
• Kick It Boots And Stomp Wear: If you’re looking for quality, style, and affordability this is the place to go. Located in Ballard this boutique features funky styles, imported shoes, and awesome customer service!
• Coastal Surf Boutique: Take a stroll along the boulevard in Alki beach and then stop into this boardsports boutique where you will find laid back apparel that can keep up with any lifestyle.
• Carmilia’s: From dressy to casual, and no matter what your budget, Camilia’s is the perfect place to revamp your wardrobe with this fall’s latest trends.
• Missi Lu: With top notch service you will walk out feeling like a million bucks while still staying within your budget. With plus sizes also available there is something for everybody to CRAVE!

Interview with entrepreness Candice Caldwell of Fashion Ethic

October 2, 2009 by Lilla | Comments (0)

Fashion Ethic brings the best of boutique shopping online with an edited selection of “Fashionably Responsible” apparel and accessories for the fashionista who craves style and substance. Check out this interview with entrepreness Candice Caldwell:

What was the inspiration or motivation behind starting your business?
I wanted to get back to my first love, fashion, after taking a detour working in retail strategy and branding – but at the same time create a resource for women who wanted to know there was substance behind their style. There are so many great designers making good choices and customers who want to be able to make the right choices. I’m happy to be able to support them both and make the connections with Fashion Ethic. I wouldn’t be content to just sell anything – it has to have a purpose and make a difference in people’s lives.

What are the most popular or best selling products or services?
Customers are just enthralled with anything bamboo – dresses, tops, scarves – bamboo can be made to feel like silk jersey or cashmere knit but is so much stronger and it grows like a weed without pesticides or soil depletion.

People may be surprised to know that…
I am absolutely one of the most intense Seattle Seahawks fans around. I had to take a 24-hour trip to Detroit because there was no way I would miss our first Super Bowl appearance!

Who is your role model or mentor?
Coco Chanel, Carmel Snow, and Andre Leon Talley are my fashion role models, Stanley Marcus is my retail role model, and Bono and Audrey Hepburn are my role models for life.

What mistake have you made in your business that you will not repeat?
Waiting so long to dive in! All the plans in the world can’t replace doing the work to get your vision off the ground. And there is always more work to get done, so why not get started right away?

How do you spend your free time? What is your indulgence?
I love to travel and I never miss a chance to see U2 in concert (especially if they happen to be in Hawaii).

What is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?
Nothing beats a night in for dinner, board games, a movie, or karaoke. I also love to go all-out and throw a theme or costume party.