Chie Mihara

Chie Mihara

Hi Sole Foodies! It’s Rachel again, resident heel girl! OBSESSED! No other way to put it! I’m completely obsessed with Chie Mihara shoes! The new spring line in particular! To be quite honest I was hoping that the sandal in the picture wouldn't fit me … that would mean I’d be buying another pair of shoes. I felt like Cinderella … it fit my foot like a glove! And there’s no wonder why, the love and craftsmanship that goes into producing these shoes is beyond compare! From supple leathers, the stacked heels, every little detail … nothing is missed.

A little bit of info on Chie Mihara to whet your appetite, and something tells me, I will be seeing all of you soon! Chie Mihara is based in Elda, Spain and the idea behind the line is the shoes are meant to offer women something different, footwear designed by woman for women, with a priority placed on design and comfort. "we're mothers, working women, active women!" she said, "and we should have shoes that match our needs. We want to look feminine, beautiful, attractive but without giving up comfort"

Hope to see ya soon!

P. Monjo is back just in time for spring!!!

 

Gone are the boots of winter, time to paint your toes ladies! Sole Food just received a shipment of fantastic sandals straight off the shores of Menorca, Spain! Like many of our other handmade shoe lines, this is definitely a shoe that only gets better as you wear it from year to year. The expert craftsmanship is seen in every detail of the shoe, the hardware, supple leathers, great colors, how can you not fall in love with P. Monjo?

A.S. 98

There’s a new shoe line on the block at Sole Food, and I for one am over the moon for it! Hey guys, Rachel here bringing you my latest must have boot line, A.S. 98! They are hand made from a designer based in Verona, Italy. What I like most about these boots would be the rugged yet feminine look. The burnished colors to the many layers of these boots will make them as versatile as they are stylish.

I’m a sucker for details, and there are details in this boot! The upper has wire piping that allows you to mold the boot to create a unique look every time you wear it (which I can see that being very often due to yet another benefit … they are incredibly comfortable!!) Oh and did I mention that yes, it’s a lace up ... yet there’s a side zip feature for those of us running out of the house at warp speed! Another thing, I love the pop of purple … I could go on and on!

The distressed side buckles on the brown boot give a bit of a vintage look with a modern twist when you see the triple colors of the leather, yet again a versatile boot to have in your closet, also the wire piping at the top allows you to create your own look. I can see this boot being dressed up with tights and a dress for an edgy look, or being the perfect boot to throw on with jeans and head to hear your favorite band!

 A riding boot with a kick …. The tall boot from the A.S. 98 collection has straps galore that give it a biker edge! It’s far from your every day basic tall boot! With the studded spur like back details, you will be sure to make a bold fashion statement! I shared it with a friend yesterday, and her response was “gorgeous and edgy”, need I say more???

Pop in and say hello and try these new boots on soon, something tells me they're about to take off!

New Shoes Cure The Blues

Hi guys! It's Rachel bringing you some fantastic shoes for spring! Blue is a huge trending color right now and I've picked some of our favorites to tell ya a little bit about the lines so you can fall in love with them as much as we have. I'm a huge believer that "new shoes cure the blues" and let's face it, winter has left us ready for fun and sun ... so read on and see how these awesome shoes will inspire you to send away the blues and bring in the summer fun!

Celebrating the blues pictured above we have Gentle Souls, Neosens, Chocolate Negro and famously John Fluevog. Each are beautifully their own shade of blue and all unique in design. Come into Sole Food to try on your pair and join us in welcoming the blues! Or visit us at www.shopsolefood.com

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

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

By Anilyn America

As a woman of good taste and an appreciation for all things beautiful, I naturally find myself gravitating towards this line. Here are a couple of our newest Gidigio's that I'm sure you'll fall in love with as well!

{Chianciano Boot}

This is going to be your favorite all season go-to shoe. Its oil-tanned leather makes it extremely versatile when pairing with all colors and prints, and the heel height is perfect for long walks through the city. 

{Danger Shoe}

The only danger you'll be in will be from the anti-fashion police! This shoe is unique, yet wearable. Pleats on one side, a zipper on the other, and tread to maximize your chance of staying on your feet even on the slickest Seattle days. 

{Positano Shoe}

Dress this shoe up with your favorite little black dress, or be city chic with dark denim jeans. I especially love the laces and the low scalloped collar. It makes me feel like a sassy pirate, and it's not even Halloween yet. Win!

Since it's inception in 1996, Gidigio has become somewhat of a boutique "Best in Show," scoring high on quality, style, and comfort. Slip one on and you'll be convinced. I doubt you'll even want to take it off. Viva Gidigio! Viva Italia! 

Chooka Rain Skimmers

Rain,  rain ….not so sure I want it to go away this time … (granted it’s not here now … who’s loving summer as much as I am right now?) BUT … when the rain comes, you will be ready thanks to Sole Food staying one step ahead of the trend yet again!! We now have Chooka Rain Skimmers and love them! Yes, even in the summer as they are super cute to wear as an everyday ballet flat! These guys are super cute and also comfy! It’s the perfect solution to a rainy day when you don’t want to wear your Hunter Boots (which should be in stock soon … a true Seattleite needs both if you ask me … boots and skimmers). Stop in soon as these guys are flying out of here!

Swedish Hasbeens

Usually when you hear the phrase “has beens” you don’t think of fashion or fun, right? We’re about to change your mind on that one … with a new line of amazingly adorable shoes and bags from a company called Swedish Hasbeens. Never heard of them? That’s ok, I’ll tell you a little bit about them and next thing you know you will be just as in love with these shoes as we are!

Team members Amie and Angela out and about in their favorite Toffels!

As the story goes, the company started when 300 pairs of red, white and black clogs from the 70’s were discovered in a basement of an old clog factory … hence the name Hasbeens. Oh yeah and the basement was in Sweden! “Our ambition is to continue to release more incoherent and fun shoes and stuff inspired by Hasbeens that once ruled the planet. “ And everyone here at Sole Food thinks they have hit the nail on the head. They are still handmade with respect for people and the environment in the old traditional way, and in small factories that have made shoes for decades.  Happy toffels make happy people.  What are toffels you ask? Toffel is Swedish for slipper … not only did you learn about a great new line, now you’re learning another language. Who said shoes won’t make you smarter? 

Bird Watchers bag 

Now that we’ve piqued your curiosity, and hopefully we’ve changed your opinion on the phrase “has beens” we will see you soon and help you find the prefect pair!

New fall merchandise has arrived!

The new fall merchandise is starting to arrive here at Sole Food and it looks amazing. Short boots are a big item for fall and we have them from all of our manufacturers. The boot pictured above is from Gabor. The snap and zipper detail is very fashion forward but the rubber bottom and soft leather make it an everyday favorite. We have new shipments from Camper, Gidigio, Frye, Sorel and Art to name a few.....come find your favorite boot today.

The Vin Baker handbag  is made from quality Italian leather and handware. It is a rare find in the sea of mass-produced handbags found today. Another Sole Food favorite!

Gidigio's Production Line

Follow a boot's story from beginning to end in Gidigio's factory in Italy.  See the incredible process that hand-crafted shoes go through!

June's Employee of the Month: Anilyn!

Congratulations to Anilyn...she's our June Employee of the Month!

"Anilyn has shown excellent customer service consistently.  She is always bright and cheery, helping anyone and everyone with their needs.  Her work ethic is impeccable and always does her best.  Everybody likes working with her!"

Current Obsessions: New Balance Minimus Trail Shoe!

Hey Sole Foodies, it's Anilyn. I'm super excited to report that our store now carries the NEW New Balance Minimus Trail shoe for both men and women. It is the newest line of barefoot footwear from New Balance. The trail shoe features a rubber wrapped upper designed to reinforce the metatarsal, a stitched tongue to prevent debris from invading your twinkle toes, a wrapped toe to guard against rocks, and an outsole designed to allow the runner to feel the ground without compromising stability.

Now, not every runner is going to need this type of shoe. The NB Minimus is designed so that runners can strike the ground landing at midfoot.  It's best to introduce yourself to the sensation of wearing a shoe like this a little at a time. New Balance recommends that first time wearers do only 10% of their usual running/walking routine to help ease runners into the transition. 

My priorities are simple: I want to look and feel comfortable, at work and at play.  I have had these shoes for a little over three weeks now and I run in them constantly. I took it slow at first but now I'm racing at full sprint. I also love the coral color and it’s totally on trend right now! Come and test them out for yourself and see what all the hype is about.

Top: Men’s MT10OB in Orange

Bottom: Women’s WT10GR in Coral

Oh So Glittery! - Glittersweet Bags

Photo: Glittersweet Studio

Sole Food is so excited to welcome glittersweet to our boutique! Made with love in our hometown of Seattle, glittersweet is the creation of two moms who find sheer joy in all things glittery! They developed a great line of bags suitable for everyday use; they are pretty enough for a night out as well as practical for the grocery store and office.  

We have crossbody bags available in two sizes: the large tote and the medium tote.  There are also some über-cute accessory cases that are perfect for everyday essentials, like your makeup, snacks, or zombie survival kit (just kidding!).  

Here is a sample of what we have in-store:

Medium Tote with Huckleberry Applique - Shop Here

These bags are a great everyday size, perfect for your daily essentials and more.  The long cross body strap features a gripper pad so the strap doesn't fall off your shoulders...how neat is that! There's a side pocket for your phone, keys, etc. and the lining is a fun, printed pattern.  Other styles we carry:

Daisy Applique - Shop Here

Blossom Applique - Shop Here

This fully-zippered accessory case has a sleek liner that makes this bag easy to clean.  The fun designs available include Huckleberry, Wildflower, and Daisy.

Wildflower Accessory Bag - Shop Here

Huckleberry Accessory Bag - Shop Here

May Employee of the Month: Bri!

Sole Food is proud to announce May's employee of the month...Bri! She has been a Sole Food team member for just over a year and she has grown to be one of our most knowledgeable associates.  Bri is always looking out for her customers and giving them all the help they need, whether it is about children's fit or fashion tips.

Here is what some of her fellow coworkers had to say about Bri:

"Bri did an incredible job of working with a customer with a disability. She worked diligently and he left the store happy and with four pairs of Cydwoq shoes. He thanked her for her friendly attitude and great knowledge of Cydwoq."

"Bri is always good to work with. She is helpful and nice to customers as well as everybody she works with."

Congrats Bri!

TEVA & Lucky the penguin!

TEVA has always been ecologically conscious about water and how the world is affected by it.  Their adventurous heritage has been around for over 25 years with the mission "to play and to protect".  While constantly pushing themselves to design the greatest sport sandals, they also play a vital role in being enviromentally friendly.

We love TEVA because they go above and beyond footwear.  Check out the video above and learn about Lucky, a penguin at the Santa Barbara zoo that needed corrective footwear to save its life.  We gotta say, TEVA makes an awfully adorable shoe for penguins!

Michael Jolie

"If the shoe matters more than the label in it, Michael Jolie is your shoe. You understand how the right shoes make your outfit - and your day. Crafted by Italian artisans from the finest leathers, Michael Jolie shoes are built for a discerning, quality-conscious woman. It's not about what you need, it's what you can't live without. Our shoes are the product of our partnership with the finest Italian shoemakers and are brought to you by a select group of retailers who feel the way we do."

 

Avery Ballet - SHOP HERE

These beautiful ballets feature the softest leathers in both a textured finish and
an amazing robin egg blue color.  The simplicity of the design will take your breath away.

Avery Ballet - SHOP HERE

Callie Heel - SHOP HERE

Need a fresh lift for your wardrobe?  These wonderfully designed heels will amaze you.  Above is the Callie heel, made by the finest Italian craftsmen around. Below, the Carina is a slingback  peep toe featured in a beautiful sea foam green.

Carina Heel - SHOP HERE

Shop Success!

Thank You!

Sole Food had a great weekend with the Shop to make a Difference event.  Thanks to you we sold 55 Cure Cards...that's $1375 going to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center...wow! 

"Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is a world leader in research to understand, treat and prevent cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Founding members of the center are credited with pioneering bone-marrow transplantation as a successful treatment for leukemia and other blood diseases."

"Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center was founded by Dr. William Hutchinson in honor of his brother, Fred, a former major league baseball player and manager, who died of lung cancer at age 45."

(From the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center website)

We heart Brett!

 Congratulations to Brett for being April's Employee of the Month!

Being a Sole Foodie for over 5 years, Brett is known for his friendly customer service,  upbeat attitude and, above all, his knowledge of footwear at Sole Food.  He actively searches new facts about fit, materials, styles and more so that he can give his customers all the facts they need to make the right decision.

 

Here's what his fellow employees had to say:

"Customers love Brett. He is very friendly and helpful to everybody. He has a lot of product knowledge and is willing to share it with customers and other co-workers. He is easy to work with and has a good attitude."

"Brett is always positive. He only has good things to say about other people.  He is fun to work with and easy to be around." 

Congratulations Brett! You deserve it!