The Finerie

It is hard to believe a little boutique on First Avenue in downtown Seattle could have such a huge impact on the surrounding world. The Finerie, which means Sunday best, consistently goes above and beyond what a typical clothing store does to create a social awareness mecca of fashion, passion and generosity.

To walk in the doors of The Finerie is to walk into the closet of your dreams. Imagine black rococo inspired chandeliers, edgy teal walls, racks and racks of exclusive garments and antique Grecian busts showcasing your finest statement jewelry. On either side of the closest walls, shadow boxes encased in elegant gold frames boast an exquisite collection of designer shoes and accessories. Complete with a secret loft that can only be known as the stairway to fashion heaven, The Finerie is truly a blessing bestowed upon Seattle.

Hosting a multitude of chic designs for men and women, garments found at The Finerie are meant to transition seamlessly from day to night. Eco-designers feel equally at home on the sleek silver racks of the store, earning a top spot in the hearts of all who wear pieces from Abi Ferrin or Sameunderneath for their ability to address environmental issues with fashion. In fact, you will find a lot of what The Finerie is about is giving back to the community and providing socially conscious items at prices everyone can afford.

The Finerie Owner Tanya Friberg uses her business as a platform for making a difference in the world. Being involved with Seattle's largest fashion show, Fashion First, has proven to be a fun and consistent outlet for this philanthropic passion. September's event will be The Finerie's third appearance and stands to be the best yet. Friberg plans to show, as she so eloquently describes it, "leather used in different ways, yummy sweater textures, spicy colors and statement jewelry, all with an edge that can speak to any age." As always, the set provided by The Finerie will show day-into-evening garments that tell a story in an assortment of color ranges and styles.

The allure of Fashion First is not all about the clothing for Friberg; it is the fact they support many local and national charities. It is literally fashion for a cause; this year benefits the Starlight Children's Foundation of Washington. The Art Institute of Seattle is another organization that benefits from Fashion First. Friberg loves the fact students get to not only present their designs in the show, but they also stand to gain some very valuable work experience behind the scenes.

Amidst the excitement of Fashion First lies the heart and soul of the business, the customer. Customer appreciation nights are held regularly as well as trunk shows and other private events. A bottle of champagne, your best girlfriends and some amazing dresses can equal one unforgettable affair. These private shopping nights are often auctioned off at various charity events, which provide yet another way for the store to get involved and give back.

A focus on the quality, fit and construction of garments and the ability to make you feel fabulous are two of the things The Finerie does best. The clothing is unique and inspiring and is meant to be lived in. Anything you purchase is something that can stay in your closet season after season, as many of their pieces can be defined as classics with a twist. They also stay ahead of the trends with some of their edgier pieces, like spiked leather platform heels from Pour La Victoire or darling bejeweled button shorts by Fortune. From the creative architectural pieces by Abigail Glaum-Lathbury to the finite details on each Reporter men's shirt, any piece found at The Finerie is bound to make you feel put together and beautiful.

The Finerie seems to have it all; clothing, shoes and accessories that can make any girl swoon and quality suits with a functional performance any man could appreciate. What's more is by supporting The Finerie, you are supporting humanitarian efforts around the world. They make it a point to offer green lines and get involved with events that give proceeds to charity. And with a profile like that, isn't it time well all get Finerized?