Seattle getaway...part 2...hunting and gathering, I bagged a big one!

There were so many great shopping opportunities to take advantage of in Seattle that I was overwelmed. (Not afraid of the challenge, I quickly rose up to meet it!)
We packed a lot into our time away, walking miles and for hours, exploring the Downtown core and seeing the sights...we did eat well and often!
Mr. HB was a very keen shopper. He managed to acquire 2 new black wool coats; one "MOTU" business coat, the other casual,  5  "Logo Free" Nordstrom polo shirts, and 2 pairs of shoes; one pair business, one pair casual for the boat.

I came home with more than I imagined... let's start here and there will be more posts to cover the rest of the loot!

I had been looking for a new bag, and had not found anything locally that made my heart flutter so I knew that it would be uppermost in my mind to scout out any prospects in Seattle.

Seattle did not disappoint!
Hooray! I bought a new bag.

Introducing....Tory Burch, my new arm candy.

love the colour!

reminds me of a caramel, or butterscotch...yummy.

Lined with several compartments.

Tote or cross body hands free for serious shopping!

Just waiting for a playdate!

I had a superb experience when purchasing this bag.

The sales staff were enthusiastic and showed me every possible bag they had on the floor. 

Bags by a multitude of amazing designers, in all colours, and styles, with prices from here to eternity.

 I tried them on, "test drove" them a bit, but all the while I kept TB firmly grasped in one hand so no one else might scoop her up.

Love or lust at first sight, I just knew!

I am thrilled with my new TB bag. The price tag is one that I can live with, the colour is new for me, it will go from spring and summer to fall. It will hold an immense amount...as long as it is not too heavy!

I laugh when I say that, as my Marc Jacobs Turnlock was too heavy when loaded up with my basics and so I gave it to my Lovely DIL.

Mr. HB was quick to point out that I better make certain that it would not be too heavy!

I am going to introduce TB to the Market and see how she likes it....we might run into our friends from Chanel or Louis Vuitton.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway scarf...see details on a former post.

More shopping reveals tomorrow stay tuned...

Seattle getaway...part 1!

We are home from our 4 days in Seattle, lots of walking as predicted and the weather was wonderful, sunny and crisp but very litttle wind and rain.

Space Needle

Monorail

Pike Street Market

Our suite at the Mayflower Park Historic Hotel

Very comfortable, and great to come back to for a bit of rest after hours of walking and sightseeing.

Frank Gehry architect, marries art and function, and voila, The Music Experience!

...and across the street, 

Ride The Ducks!

 I thought it might be a bit too touristy, but was so much fun and a great way to see Seattle and a cruise in Lake Union!

Amphibious WW11 Ducks!

I had to take this photo as I follow a blogger whose blog is named Faux Fuchsia go and pay her a visit.

We did shop and we both found lots to bring home...Mr. HB was especially pleased to find polo shirts with No Logo's on them at Nordstroms!

Mr.HB does not do Logos...and on the boat, during summer his signature top is a classic polo shirt. Thank you Nordstroms!

Shopping does give you an appetite, so laden with our many bags, we made our way to the closest eatery...

We ate lunch in the Nordstroms Grill, great food and exceptional service.

I dined on a roasted vegetable salad and a glass of bubbly, Mr.HB had a pale ale and a beef dip sandwich.

I have some shopping surprises too...I will reveal them tomorrow!

Minimalist fashion luggage challenge.

I have a "small carry on bag", regulation size and I need to be prepared for 4 days of windy and rainy Seattle weather, dinners out, shopping and a LOT of walking.
Sounds easy for those of you who are experienced globe trotting executives or world travellers. NOT EASY pour moi!
I was very impressed with Janet over at The Gardener's Cottage who recently packed for a romantic weekend in Palm Springs and fit everything into a modest sized tote. She shows us pictures of her ensembles and she was spot on with her choices!
Note to self; it can be done.
I have to admit my packing history is shameful. I definitely fail in this area so I set myself a challenge, be ruthless, plan ahead, hang things in wearable groupings, mix, match and discard what doesn't do double duty....and here's the reason for this challenge...to leave space for holiday purchases!

I am going to be wearing my skinny jeans because I can wear flats for the ease and comfort navigating the streets and the expected mileage.

Hermes scarf, Gilmore top, Olsen belt, skinny jeans in petite, sequined black flats.

We will be staying at Our Home away from Home.
We will be shopping and sightseeing....Pike Place Market and more.
I love the vibe Downtown

INC top, skinny jeans, sequined flats.

Sweet Tea in Seattle has suggested the Bravern Mall in Bellevue which sounds very enticing! LV, Hermes, Neiman Marcus, Woolfords and that is just the start...OMG, there is even Valet parking!

 I have dark denim skinny jeans, (to wear with flats) and dark denim dressy jeans, (need heels), capri length black Hue leggings....neutral tank top, white 3/4 sleeve Cut Loose top, Parkhurst long sweater which can be also belted for a coat effect, new black trench style jacket, scarf, Olsen belt with ornate buckle detail, and a nightie. Does that sound like enough? Too much?
I have not packed a skirt or a dress which might be a mistake...but I did not want to put boots in or hose (my legs are ghostly pale) and dressy shoes....but can pair the grey or winter white longer tops with my Hue black capri tights. These tights with flats have me feeling very Audrey-esque!

Debra Kay necklace, Cut Loose top, Parkhurst sweater.

Hermes scarf, black spring jacket.

Weather feels very cold outside so I am thinking I'll wear my winter wool black Olsen coat just to be on the safe side...Is snow mentioned in the forecast!!!

Olsen winter coat, and hide gloves in Elliot Lucca bag just in case.

I also plan to pack my grey Club Monaco scarf which doubles as a wrap...soft and cozy, great if one is sitting beneath the air conditioner in a restaurant.

Have you noticed the theme here?

Black, black, more black and a smattering of neutrals...only color here is in the lacy lingerie and the toes, neither of which will be paraded in public.

I usually wear a stack of silver bangles but I am wearing my Tiffany necklace as a bracelet to mix things up a bit...and if I get lost...

I had a pedicure with Shelley this morning....and I have happy feet and toes!

OPI toes.... I'm India Mood for Love!

In Seattle, I will be first and foremost "holiday making" with Mr. HB.  I'll also be shopping for shoes....and maybe a bag. Mr. HB is very helpful and his opinion is valued especially when Hermes scarves are being considered...he has been involved at Tiffany's as well. Maybe I'll introduce him to Chanel and Louis Vuitton this time and see how they get along! He gets bored in Macy's so I'll go solo for an hour or so and see how many pairs of shoes I can buy. I hope there are some cute ballerina flats in my future.

I may be away from the blogosphere for a few days...
Don't forget to check out the FANtastic silky scarf I am giving away...see earlier post.

Silk scarf giveaway....in celebration of my recent 100th post....

I have a vintage gently used pure silk, large and luxurious scarf to give away.

 Drape, twist and flaunt it...wear with attitude...wrap your hair Grace Kelly style while riding in a convertible.

Are you on a windy road near Monte Carlo

or are you riding on the bus commuting to work?

Weave a dream, where are you while wearing this...

I would love to hear from you... embellish, elaborate, exaggerate...

I hope that you will participate.

Have some fun...fan that creative fire.

Please comment for one entry, become a follower of The Hostess of the Humble Bungalow for two, post on your blog for three.

I'll keep this open for a couple of weeks...and see if I have any interest.

Closes on March 21, 2010

Good luck!

The Hostess.... a not so big Reveal!

How do I take my own picture?

Stand tall, stretch arms...click!

and turning to the side...

I am not now nor have I ever been photogenic...I really do not enjoy having my photo taken so it has been with a bit of reluctance and trepidation that I share these.

Many of the blogs that I follow have images of bloggers in beautiful garments, wearing enchanting gems, and looking so relaxed. I love that they are so creative in their dressing and appear comfortable and natural.

I am a "behind the scenes" kind of gal.

I am thinking of updating my profile picture and one of these might work.

I am wearing the Debra Kay necklace, diamond studs... and a Liz Claiborne grey tank top, highlights courtesy of Aveda salon and the divinely talented Chris.

Anyone else feel camera shy?