Glam Spotlight – Sparkle in Seattle

Seattle is known for its indie music scene, having  THE most well- informed coffee consumers, and layer-worthy weather.  Speaking of layering, the Seattle fashion scene is as eclectic as its residents.  Thrifting is huge in this not-so-sleepy city. There are bloggers galore who report on the culture of thrift in Seattle.  Goodwill stores are so hip in this city,  that over the past couple of years, their annual Glitter Gala Fashion Show has been produced by students from The Art Institute of Seattle - Fashion Program.  Not to be outdone, the Seattle Goodwill Glitter Sale is a major phenomenon.  It’s been around since 1983.  This Goodwill Hunter had the pleasure of volunteering at the sale on Saturday, November 12.  The customers, staff and volunteers were courteous and patient, with lots of Aloha.  The line outside started before 3:00am and hundred of people were  ”literally chilling” in  line waiting for their chance to peruse thousands of Glitter items.  By the way, if you live in Seattle, Washington (and Oregon for that matter) and you haven’t heard of the Seattle Glitter Sale, “come-out come-out from under that rock!”

I’m pleased to announce to you that this week’s Glam Spotlight - the hand bag pictured above –  was a stunning item from the 2011 Glitter Sale.  The owner of this vintage-esque hand bag has donated it to the Goodwill Goes GLAM! event in 2012 and wishes to remain anonymous.  So be on the look-out for this bag at Goodwill Goes GLAM! in August 2012 – your purchases support Goodwill’s mission of helping people to prepare for, acquire and keep their jobs.

Going back to Goodwill Hunting in Seattle – congratulations to the Seattle Goodwill team for putting on a fantastic Glitter Gala – the staff were so organized that it was literally a well-oiled Glitter machine.  Volunteers were given clear direction and all elements of the Gala were excellent from the chair covers to the Silent Auction.

As mentioned earlier, Seattle Arts Institute students - Kokii Stekoll  and Jake Treat did a fantastic job of producing the Fire & Ice Fashion Show. Goodwill has collaborated with the Art Institute of Seattle on another level as well.  In the months leading up to the Gala designers showcased their re-designed creations that were showcased at the Glitter Gala.  Their talent [and innovation] is so evident.

A little more about the sale.  One hundred percent of the proceeds goes directly to Seattle Goodwill programs.  So, not only do you get great deals on items from, Kate Spade, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany & Co., Michael Kors, Christian Louboutin and so much more, but you feel good about where your dollars end-up.  That’s why there’s a mighty line to get into the sale every year.

Lastly, we went to the U-district to visit the Goodwill University store and, my goodness, it was like an  Old Navy meets Banana Republic loft space.  You must visit this store when you’re in Seattle, seriously.  You’ll find the latest brand names, affordable clothes for school and for a night out on the town.  For more information about the Glitter Sale read the Glitter Sale Insider blog.

The Goodwill Industries of Hawaii team learned so much from the Seattle Goodwill team as planning and prep ensues for Goodwill Goes GLAM! in 2012.

Final thoughts, wherever you travel, be a Goodwill Hunter and support the mission.  But remember, when you return to Hawaii, look for the Glam Spotlight deals on this blog and you’ll have a chance to purchase those items at Goodwill Goes GLAM! in 2012.  Happy Hunting!