Friday, January 25, 2013

Shop Jewelry at Sole Food

You all know that Sole Food carries a wide-ranging collection of fabulous shoes from all over the globe. But did you know that we also sell jewelry?! Read on to learn about several of our favorite jewelry designers whose work is available for purchase at your favorite shoe store.

Giles and Brother: Giles and brother Philip are the siblings and creative minds behind Giles and Brother (get the name?). Their jewelry is always sophisticated, sometimes slightly industrial and frequently fun and whimsical. Based out of New York, the brand has a worldwide following. Giles and Philip draw inspiration from many different sources and cultures and have been featured in magazines such as Marie Claire and Harper’s Bazaar.

Several styles of Giles and Brother bracelets currently in stock
more Giles and Brother seen here layered.. 
Anna Balkan: Atlanta, Georgia jeweler Anna Balkan has created a veritable jewelry empire. Her colorful creations are all handcrafted, feature semi-precious stones and pearls and are made from either sterling silver or gold fill. She endeavors to inspire women to feel like and to be their most beautiful selves, inside and out, through her bright and playful designs. A favorite of Sole Food’s customers, Anna’s jewelry perfectly complements any outfit.

Shelli Markee: Silversmith Shelli Markee handcrafts works of art out of silver and brass in her home studio in Seattle. Her work features clean lines and balanced designs that are thoughtfully composed and never overwrought. In addition to her line of jewelry, Shelli also makes wire sculptures and even wire furniture(!). We are so pleased to carry Shelli’s jewelry at Sole Food.

One of our favorite pairs of Shelli Markee earrings

Harlow: We recently started carrying Harlow, a jewelry line designed and handmade by Ruthie Crawford. Many of us who work at Sole Food own one or two of her pieces, they’re so fun and versatile. Ruthie’s designs have a classic feel to them and are inspired by vintage jewels from bygone eras. Ruthie lives and works in Portland and her work appeals to all of us Northwesterners looking for something exciting and colorful to jazz up our outfits during grey winter days.

While our jewelry is currently not available to purchase online, feel free to call us if you’d like to order anything over the phone or stop by the store and see what’s new! 206.526.7184

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Introducing Cliff Dweller


We are so pleased to introduce Cliff Dweller, Cydwoq’s sister line. Cydwoq is one of our most popular brands and Cliff Dweller is made using the same techniques and materials as Cydwoq and are manufactured in Cydwoq’s factory. Designed by Cydwoq founder Rafi Balouzian’s son Ari, Cliff Dweller shoes are fun, comfortable and reflect Ari’s distinctive point of view. In addition to being a designer and Cydwoq’s Creative Director, Ari is a visual artist and a musician. The name Cliff Dweller is also the name of Ari’s ongoing collaborative artistic project and his shoe designs complement and are inspired by his many and varied artistic endeavors. Take a look at Cliff Dweller’s website to read all about what Ari is working on—he is amazingly talented!: http://www.cliffdwellermedia.com/

Rafi and Ari come from a long tradition of shoemakers and their family has passed down its knowledge regarding shoe construction for seven generations. Ari worked closely with his father and designed over thirty styles for Cydwoq before starting his own line. Cliff Dweller shoes, like Cydwoq, are comfortable as well as fashionable. Cydwoq was started because Rafi saw a need for shoes that would support an active lifestyle (he regularly walks fifty blocks a day!) and that utilized European-style craftsmanship. Since its beginning in 1996, Cydwoq has remained committed to manufacturing the highest quality shoes. Cydwoq and Cliff Dweller shoes are always made by hand using the finest vegetable tanned leathers and Cydwoq strives to impact the environment as little as possible. Cliff Dweller is an exciting new enterprise for the company and its shoes will surely appeal to Cydwoq’s many fans. Sole Food is so excited to welcome Cliff Dweller to our store!


The Thomas
We currently have two adorable styles in stock by Cliff Dweller, the Norma and Thomas flats. These will be great for spring (which seems like it’ll never get here—what’s with this arctic chill?!) and can easily be worn with tights and a dress or skirt. They feature a negative heel and Cydwoq’s trademark metal shank through the sole to help support feet and allow for lots of walking.



The Norma