Sports Bra Fresh at Title Nine FitFest (+ Giveaway!)

I live in my sports bras.

I've somehow amassed a sports bra collection that far outnumbers my 'regular' bras. It's not uncommon for me to wear one when I'm chillin' at home, or out running errands, or even to work. I have a variety of them, some for style & some with a specific workout in mind.

Just like normal bras, I think it's super important to find the right ones not just for the shape of your body, but for the kinds of workouts you do. No woman wants their boobies out of control when they're in the midst of a good run, a fast-paced Zumba class or the perfect yoga stretch.

Have you been fitted for your sports bras lately? If your answer is no, have I got a giveaway for you! Enter FitFest 2015 from Title Nine.

The bra experts at Title Nine are making it easier and a lot more fun to find the perfect bra by hosting "FitFest" events to help every athlete find her perfect bra and get on the road to a more comfortable and healthier workout.

At a FitFest event, you can expect:

• Personalized bra fitting advice from a “bravangelist” expert
• An expanded assortment of bras
• Bras for sports, work-to-workout, everyday and date night
• A “Bounce-ath-a-lon” for those who want to put Title Nine’s bras to the test, with stations like hula hoop, jump rope, cup stacking, run around the block, hippity hop ball & burpees

RSVP at your friendly neighborhood local Title Nine store. Visit www.titlenine.com for a full list of cities and more information.

Want to win a free sports bra and personalized bra fitting from Title Nine? Enter below now through Tuesday, May 12th at 11:59p.m. PT. Enter as many times as you want each day!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow Title Nine on  Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Fresh Style: Neon Decade

80s babies wassup!

My friends at Bainbridge Island-based Neon Decade sent me some gear to wear recently, and the various pieces have found their way into my everyday rotation. This grey pullover is light and perfect to throw on after a workout (or in this case, a good sauna session at City Sweats.) I've been wearing this tank top to work out in, and the simple racerback fit makes it a great neutral to balance out the color and prints of all my other stuff.

Neon Decade is the fruit of a lifelong creative partnership. Working together for 30+ years on various projects from action sports to community arts, they're here now to bring you this line of clothing inspired by a decade of things we all loved.

Shop Neon Decade online & follow them on Instagram or Facebook.

Evening Magazine: Super Bowl XLIX Seahawks Style w/Fresh Jess 2015

Remember last year when Kim Holcomb & Evening Magazine were kind enough to have me on the show for a Seahawks style segment? Well, in between tears of joy and disbelief following this year's NFC Championship game, Kim and I coordinated to do another style segment this year. Here it is!

Article with links and full text here

It's still surreal to be on a show I've watched since I was a baby, in this beautiful city where we've put in many years of misery and no hope of coming close to the Super Bowl, to talk about my own way of sharing the pride I feel for our boys going to defend their championship title. The magic is alive in the Emerald City and it's in the hearts, smiles and blue & green sleeves of all the 12s out there.

I'm not sure how I'm focusing on anything else this week. Is it the Super Bowl yet? 

SEA! HAWKS!

Thank you endlessly, Kim, Howard & the Evening Magazine team for having me again!

Fresh Reads: The Woman I Wanted to Be by Diane von Furstenberg

Most of my books are non-fiction, usually written by an entrepreneur I admire in some way. Every single one of these entrepreneurs has worked hard to achieve their dreams, and yet every one of them is vastly different from the next. Like every girl, I've admired Diane von Furstenberg for her style, charisma and that iconic wrap dress. To be honest, I didn't know much about her until I picked up The Woman I Wanted to Be, her latest book. Little did I know what an introspective look I'd get into the life of a real-life princess!

This is probably the first book that caught me uttering the words, "Girl, you have a charmed life." But that's only the half of it! In The Woman I Wanted to Be, Diane takes us through her life from four different lens: family, love, beauty and fashion. Naturally, the fashion part is a lion's share of her story, but you really understand how the soul inside the lady and the business have evolved together throughout the entire book.

You can't help but wish you were a part of Diane's inner circle as you read through the book. She speaks so fondly of everyone who's touched her life in some way, no matter how far back they go and whether or not she sees them anymore. Her fierce love for her family translates deeply into her business - and stems from the well of fierce love she's cultivated for herself through the years. 

What was my favorite lesson learned from Diane? I loved how she's owned every part of her life. Daughter. Mother. Sister. Cancer survivor. Inexperienced but wildly passionate entrepreneur. Jetsetter. Lover. Comeback kid. She repeats the message of 'becoming the woman I wanted to be' throughout the book, as well as her mantra, "Love is life." No matter how dark or bright her life might be, Diane knows love is the motivating factor in everything, and her journey of loving and finding herself has made for one truly enchanting life.

Check out Diane von Furstenberg's The Woman I Wanted to Be.

Fresh Jess for University Village - Holiday Pinterest Boards

I've been pinning with University Village this holiday season, and I thought I'd share our boards! Now that Christmas is over, you can treat yourself to some of these winter collections, accessories and sparkly things. I'm pinning New Year's Eve style and party ideas this week. Enjoy!


Follow University Village's board A Holiday of Making Magic on Pinterest.

Follow University Village's board Santa Baby I'm on the Nice List on Pinterest.

Follow University Village's board Holiday Bits & Baubles on Pinterest.

Fresh Jess Holiday Picks for Gear Live

Last week, Andru of Gear Live invited me to be a part of their Holiday Bash in Seattle, and give my picks in fashion, beauty and fitness for the season. Gear Live is a big tech blog based here, and since its readers are mostly male, I wanted to highlight items not just because I'm into them myself, but because they're functional and approachable. I wanted these to be the kinds of gifts Gear Live fans could easily buy online and in local stores without the fear of it being too fashionable or irrelevant to the special someone they're shopping for. I am not much for holiday guides, but thought I should put this up for those who wanted to see them:

1. The search for a sustainable, zero-waste, grippy yoga mat is over. I have this Manduka pro Lite mat on my wish list for next year's burpees in the park.

2. Scotch & Soda skyrocketed high onto my favorite stores list after I hosted an event at their U-Village store earlier this fall. I've been wearing the Maison Scotch fluffy punk scarf with everything lately. It puts the definitive Seattle touch on my outfit :) 

3. I am not into wearing a ton of makeup and spend much more of my time and money on keeping my skin healthy. That includes regular facials at skoah - and at home I use many of their products! My favorite product is the skoah Hydra Dew Mask. It keeps your face & neck hydrated and moisturized and gentle enough to use everyday (and leave on all day if you forget.) I recommend this to everyone, for the plane, in desert heat and in the harsh winter temps. 

4. I'm not a trendy fragrance person and when I find one I like, I tend to stick to it for years. I've just added Oribe's Côte d'Azur eau de parfum to my boudoir. The sandalwood, jasmine & bergamot are the perfect notes. You can find it in Seattle at Robert Leonard Salon & Spa next to Jazz Alley!

5. I love my Converse rubber All-Star hi-tops - and they're a hit with men, women and kids! They're on sale at Nordstrom if you can get your hands on a pair. They're going fast!

Seattle! Smithsonian Exhibition Bring Star Wars™ Costume Tour to EMP - Jan 2015

Better put this on your calendar now because this exhibit will definitely sell out! Seattle is the first stop on the Smithsonian Exhibition's 12-city national tour of iconic movies from the epic. The exhibit, titled Rebel, Jedi, Princess, Queen: Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume, will be on view at the EMP from January 31st through October 4th, 2015.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

Culled from the collection of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Rebel, Jedi, Princess, Queen: Star Wars and the Power of Costume is a partnership of the EMP, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and Lucasfilm.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

George Lucas imagined and created a fantastical world filled with dynamic characters who told the timeless story of the hero’s journey. The costumes shaped the identities of these now famous characters, from the menacing black mask of Darth Vader and the gilded suit of C-3PO, to the lavish royal gowns of Queen Amidala and a bikini worn by Princess Leia when enslaved by Jabba the Hutt.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

“Craftsmanship and artistry in costume design are valued creative components in the Star Wars saga,” said Lucas. “The detailed precision of a design can be as bold a measure of storytelling as words on a page, leading to truths at the core of a character, situation or shared history. From initial concept drawings to complex physical constructions, the costumes featured in this exhibition serve to further define crucial aspects of worlds created to move, educate and entertain us—to inspire the imagination.”

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

Presenting 60 of the finest hand-crafted costumes from the first six blockbuster Star Wars films, the exhibition uncovers the challenges, the intricate processes and the remarkable artistry of Lucas, the concept artists and costume designers. The costumes reflect an eclectic mix of cultural, historical and mythical sources that add rich texture to the story.

Through nine presentational “chapters":

• Introduction: Dressing a Galaxy; 
• Jedi versus Sith: Form, Function and Design; 
• Concept and Design for Royalty and Beyond;
• Symbolism and Military Power; 
• Outlaws and Outsiders; 
• All Corners of the Galaxy: The Galactic Senate; 
• After the Throne: Padmé’s Journey; 
• Darth Vader: Iconic Villain; and 
• Droid™ Design: C-3PO and R2-D2—visitors will explore the creative process from Lucas’s vision through concept drawings by artists such as Ralph McQuarrie and Iain McCaig, to the final costume designs of John Mollo and Trisha Biggar, among others.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

Featured costumes include:

• Monk-like robes of Jedi masters Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker
• Intimidating suit and complex breathing apparatus of Darth Vader
• Military-influenced uniforms of the Imperial Stormtrooper, Senate Guard and TIE Fighter Pilot
• Yak hair and mohair costume of the towering Wookiee Chewbacca
• Intergalactic outfits of Senators Bail Organa, Mon Mothma and Mas Amedda
• Fierce armor of mercenary bounty hunters Jango Fett, Boba Fett and Zam Wesell
• Elaborately detailed gowns of Queen Amidala, Queen Jamillia and their handmaidens

Short films in Star Wars and The Power of Costume provide a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and include interviews with artists, designers and actors. The visitor experience will be enhanced by interactive flip books featuring sketches, photographs and notes that capture the creative team’s inspiration and vision.

Rebel, Jedi, Princess, Queen: Star Wars and the Power of Costume is the third exhibition on which SITES has collaborated with Lucasfilm. Previous projects were Star Wars: The Magic of Myth and Star Wars: The Art of the Starfighter.

Image credit © & ™ 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. Used under authorization.

Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C., for more than 60 years. SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science and history, which are shown wherever people live, work and play. For exhibition description and tour schedules, visit www.sites.si.edu.

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

is a first-of-its kind institution, designed to serve as the country’s premiere venue for understanding the connections and lineage of illustrative and visual art. Conceived by George Lucas, the museum is based on the filmmaker’s passion for education and the role art can play in inspiring young people. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art collection ranges from fine art to animation, from fashion to cinematic design and is comprised of works of the great masters of the Golden Age of Illustration through today’s digital artists, showing the ways culture is reflected in the popular art of any given time.

Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.

EMP Museum is a leading-edge, nonprofit museum, dedicated to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel popular culture. With its roots in rock ’n’ roll, EMP serves as a gateway museum, reaching multigenerational audiences through collections, exhibitions and educational programs, using interactive technologies to engage and empower its visitors. At EMP, artists, audiences and ideas converge, bringing understanding, interpretation and scholarship to popular culture. EMP is housed in a 140,000-square-foot Frank O. Gehry-designed building. This spectacular, prominently visible structure has the presence of a monumental sculpture set amid the backdrop of the Seattle Center.

Meet Banago Philippine Bags (+ Support Their Kickstarter!)

Last week, this Kickstarter campaign pitch landed in my inbox. Intrigued by the obviously Filipino word 'Banago' (pronounced ba-NAH-go), I clicked the email open and was immediately drawn in by the vibrant color and modern style of what I knew to be traditional Filipino straw bags. Founder Renée Patron graciously took time out of her busy New York Fashion Week schedule last week to hop on the phone with me and satiate more of my curiosity around Banago.

Banago was a flourishing accessories brand whose factory had been leveled during Typhoon Haiyan. Renée began teaching weavers, mostly women, to become self-employed business owners and to work within the safety of their own homes. Before Haiyan, Banago grew to help provide for the livelihood of over 400 artisans, who became leaders in their communities. Renée herself is a veteran of the fashion industry, with experience in everything from design to production to distribution. Her solid reputation helped land Banago's high-quality, high-fashion bags on the shelves and in pages of Nordstrom, Anthropologie, J.Crew, Vogue, Lucky Magazine and more. 

Watch Renée tell the full Banago story here:

It's just too rare to see a Filipino shine in any industry, even as we've found ourselves in virtually every corner of the world. Renée's hard work cemented Banago's place in all of these retailers and magazines, and for that I admire her.

I want to help Renée and her team restore their factory, their homes and their lives that were destroyed by Haiyan, and hope you do too. The Pintados bag is about to be the 'It' bag of the season 'round these parts!

Shop Banago and support their Kickstarter here. Thank you Renée!

Read all of my Aces interviews here.

Seattle! Lorna Jane is Coming (+ Gift Card Giveaway)

Seattle ladies! I've got a treat for you. Australian active lifestyle brand Lorna Jane is coming to Seattle and Bellevue, and I have a $50 gift card to give away to one lucky reader!

Lorna Jane was founded by its namesake, Lorna Jane Clarkson over 25 years ago. In that time, LJ and team have been on a mission to empower every woman to lead her best life through active living. Producing monthly bespoke collections available in more than 150 stores in the United States and Australia, as well as stockists in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Lorna Jane garments provide each wearer with a distinct sense of energy, vitality and a “take on the world” approach to life. All for the love of health and wellness, the Lorna Jane sisterhood aspires to be their own personal best by embracing the daily practice of Move Nourish Believe.

The kind ladies at Lorna Jane sent me a care package a few weeks ago, and a few items have already made their way into my daily workout rotation. Below are a few shots of my favorite pieces - naturally a few notches up on the style factor and perfect for my everyday style.

Lorna Jane Laser hooded sports bra / Lorna Jane Jenaveve Harem Pant / Nike Dunk Sky Hi

So many covet-ready pieces on LornaJane.com, with new pieces added every month! Seattle, you have until Thursday August 28th to enter. That's when the Seattle store opens in Westlake Center. Hope to see you at the launch party! Good luck!

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

Disclosure: Product was provided by Lorna Jane. All opinions are my own!

Live in Levi’s®: Office Style (Sponsored)

It’s weird working in an office almost every day after two years worth of coffee shops and working at home. Doing the job? No problem. Dressing for it? A whole ‘nother story! I don’t know why, but getting dressed for work was the most nerve-wracking part of taking on this contract. In Seattle, we don’t ever have to worry about being too dressed down for most offices. However, I’m not the type to throw on just any old tee and jeans and call it good. Just like any other situation, dressing for the office means finding the right fits for my body, my personality and my need to be comfortable in my own skin.

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

Levi’s® have been a staple in my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. Nowadays, most of my Levi’s® are vintage pairs I’ve scoured from various thrift shops and garage sales and transformed into cutoffs. Vintage Levi’s® have a natural high-waisted look, and are so comfortable yet sturdy. There are a lot of different kinds of denim out there nowadays, but I always know there’s solid fabric, quality and craftsmanship in each pair of my Levi’s®. I treasure my vintage cutoffs, but what style of Levi’s® should I wear into the office?

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

I was super stoked to review Levi’s® new Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse. Figure-enhancing and perfectly slimming, these modern-day Levi’s® are an essential pant for the office wardrobe. The legging style means they’re extremely soft, stretchy and comfortable – yet they’ve still got that denim look that’s easy to pair with everything from crisp white button-downs, chambray shirts, silk tunics and your favorite cotton tanks.

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse

Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings in dark ink rinse / Zara top / Jewelmint necklace / vintage bracelet / Dolce Vita “Yani” black suede stilettos

I’m wearing suede heels and a few more of my favorite office attire pieces with my pair of Levi’s® Pull-On Leggings. What would you wear with yours?

Live in Levi’s®

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Levi’s® via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Levi’s®.

Photo Faves: Nordstrom Designer Preview 2014

Nordstrom Designer Preview is probably my favorite event to cover. I've had the honor of attending for three years now, and each show has such unique character, it's a treat to watch every year. 2014 was the year of pop art, with proceeds benefiting Seattle Art Museum's Pop Departures exhibit coming October 9, 2014. 

I remember gravitating towards a lot of black, hunter green and dark jewel tones in the past; this year my eyes drank in those bold, bright colors and in-your-face prints. The trends are heavy in glam feminine this year; flowy or structures shapes meant to really flatter the body juxtaposed with boxy outerwear, high collars and big accessories. 

I had a blast at the show and even got a #NordstromPreview selfie in. Check out my favorite looks below:

AllSaints sleeveless trench coat // lululemon Noir dress // Shoemint wedges

Talking shop with Carolyn of Hey Pretty Thing. Photo by Miguel Marino.

All photos below by Vivian Hsu for Team Photogenic.

Dries van Noten

Yellow striped oversized 'Rhonda' coat / Fuchsia pinwheel-print 'Vedas' short jacket / Black broken-pinstripe slim 'Paola' pants

Christian Dior

Electric blue wool/angora coat with three-quarter bell sleeves

Michael Kors 

Vanilla cashmere boucle chunky v-neck cardigan / Java silk sleeveless peasant top / Taupe python-print chiffon peasant skirt w/ruffle bottom

Michael Kors

Slate metallic printed drop-waist dress

Gucci

Sour cherry halter dress with leather top

Akris

Black long jacket w/front closure / Black/shore open face jacket

Stella McCartney

Black/emerald wool jacquard zip-front anorak w/hood / White/emerald/midnight long-sleeved turtleneck dress

Stella McCartney

Black sleeveless jumpsuit

Stella McCartney

Claret sleeveless dress w/cord detail

Dolce & Gabbana

Purple floral-print silk chiffon long-sleeved empire-waist gown

Lanvin

Black/white jacquard sculpted dress w/ flare skirt

Lanvin

Midnight blue dress w/jewel fringe detail

See more of my photos from Nordstrom Designer Preview 2014 on my Facebook page.

2014 Summer Style Picks w/ Courtney Liu

FJ Summer ’14: What I’m obsessed with for summer!

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Short hair & light tones

– Last year I rocked bold ombré locks (really long locks) and although I enjoyed the black, reddish-brown and blond tones in my hair, I have recently graduated so I thought I needed a change. I decided to opt for a shoulder-length cut and as for the color; I went for a balyage/ombré technique with honey brownish-blonde tones. Now that summer is approaching and the heat is creeping upon us I’m loving the liberty of having short hair!

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Color me pink…and purple…and red

– It’s almost summertime so get ready for the vivid hues for your lips. One of my faves and staples is my “Rouge Shine” from Sephora because if you apply a light coat it creates a faint magenta color for day, however; if you’re going for more of a pop of color at night, you can apply a few more layers and your lips will be a gleaming violet. When I want a vibrant hot pink lip I go for my “Rouge Artist Intense” lipstick by Make Up For Ever. I also recently picked up two lipsticks from the “Kate” line of Rimmel London – a classic red and mauve (inspired by Kylie Jenner).

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Bralettes are the new push-up

– Totally obsessed with the lightweight, lacey undergarment. Not only are they comfortable, but also they’re so cute slash sexy and may be worn to be seen too – for example, under a loose or sheer top.

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Crazy but fun florals

– Be daring and don’t be afraid to wear lots of bright colors in the summer; it’s the time to shine anyways! I recently found a peplum top with a colorful bird-of-paradise floral design and I also have a crop top with a vibrant tropical flower print. I love that both tops have mesh inlays, which could allow the breeze to flow through– awesome for this sizzling season!

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Be bold, with colors

– CHARTREUSE. It’s my favorite color for summer. I own an H&M skirt and an Urban Outfitters top (decorated with French lace) both in this color. I love how bold this color is and paired with subtle colors, it just stands out and can pull an outfit together.

Fresh Jess Courtney Liu Summer Style 2014

Pretty in powder blue

– One of the trendy colors of the season is powder blue! This pastel color, reminiscent of summer skies, is a soft hue that’s looks very crisp paired with white or black. I recently purchased a crop button-down top in powder blue, with white polka dots.

Xx,

Courtney

------

Courtney Liu is a Hawaii native in the journalism program at the University of Washington. She loves clothes and styling herself and her friends. She hopes to pursue a career in public relations or in the fashion industry.

Find Courtney on Twitter, and view all of her posts here.

U Mad Bro? A Lesson In Internet Mean Girls

"Words have vibrations." - Danielle LaPorte

I was going about my Friday morning, in the first of a day full of meetings, when I stopped for a hot second to check Twitter. I've turned off all push notifications for social media, so I was surprised to see so much activity in maybe two hours since I'd last checked. "What's happening? Why are my mentions blowing up?" I thought to myself. As it turns out, everyone's favorite outspoken athlete, Richard Sherman of our Super Bowl Champion Seahawks, tweeted this photo out:

AHHH! I posted this Instagram (and here on the blog) months ago, and I was stoked to see his team decided to use it for a #FanFriday post. I'd seen tons of other fans' sporting their Richard Sherman gear in past weeks, and I was so excited to see my own face there among them. I shared it with my own Twitter and Facebook friends, and just sat for a second in amazement. I love the Seahawks and I'd had fun styling different tees all season, and Richard Sherman noticed! How cool! 

My excitement brought me over to his Facebook page, where he'd also posted the photo. What was a big smile faded back a bit as I started to read some of the comments underneath the Facebook photo.

My friend  Howie posted this for me :)

I know, I know. Never read the comments. Easy advice to take when the post in question isn't about you. Since this post was all me, I couldn't help myself, and took in each and every comment one by one. The tee says "You Mad Bro?" (Sherman's infamous phrase) and so most of the comments were from guys saying something to the effect of "Not anymore!" Honestly, the guys' comments overall weren't disrespectful. What really got to me was that the meanest, most critical comments were coming from other women. They tore apart everything from my body size and type, my outfit choices, my intelligence, my lifestyle and called me all kinds of names. I was labeled an desperate attention-seeker and a bad example for said women's daughters. All from this one photo!

Even the strongest and most self-confident might not be immune to all of this shit-talking. I certainly wasn't. As a blogger and someone who's active in social media, I put a lot of thought and care to how I put myself out there. I want to be inspiring and exemplary; a strong, powerful female who's gracious, conscious and purposeful with a thirst for knowledge and opinions of her own. How funny is that a single photo could shake that foundation. I started to doubt myself for posting that photo, and for tagging Sherman in it all those months ago. I even thought about asking his team to take the picture down just so I wouldn't have to read all these stupid comments anymore. The rest of that day, I'd get a pit in my stomach every time I logged into Facebook.

I felt the need to explain myself. That I'd taken that photo because I was feeling in great shape; that I was feeling particularly flossy that day; that the shirt looked better with boyshorts than full pants; that I took it in the comfort of my own home, where I watched the game (that I didn't go anywhere looking like that.) Then I decided, "You know what? These losers don't deserve an explanation. I'm proud of the way I look, I'm not naked and I would take that picture again!" I planned on just not saying anything further, but my family was sharpening their teeth and claws ready to get into wars of words with these haters. I told them not to waste their time, and ended up posting this response with as much grace and poise as I could muster:

I closed the book on my curiosity for their opinions then, and I haven't checked back for any new comments since. 

I don't encourage getting into it with trolls, because that's what they want. After spending way too much of my Friday thinking about them, I knew deep down that their opinion had nothing to do with me, and everything to do with them. Their words were criticism rooted in wells of insecurity, jealousy and negativity. It was their choice to put that negative energy out there, as if deflecting it onto me would somehow make them feel better. I know for sure I would never want to function on their level, so why stoop to it? I didn't do anything wrong, and he chose my photo. I don't know him personally, and while he's easy on the eyes, I have a boyfriend who I happen to think is quite handsome and irreplaceable.

I will never apologize to anyone for how I look, how hard I work on my body and what or how I decide to put it out there. 

via  Danielle LaPorte's Pinterest

They tell you not to even acknowledge or engage haters like the ones I encountered on Friday, but I felt the need to speak up to my fellow ladies. I wanted to encourage them to stop and think about why they needed to cut down other women, and how so easily. To take responsibility for the words (and actions) they put out there, whether that's in the digital space, in front of their children and other Facebook friends and to people they may end up meeting one day. I wanted to remind them that all women are beautiful, and they would be too if they didn't put out so much hateful energy out there. It's annoying that I even had to say these kinds of things to grown women, but you can't teach maturity. I won't stand for women bringing each other down when we have much bigger fish to fry out there. I encourage all of you to think positively, and be conscious of how you treat others in real life or in the digital space. It's all a reflection of you and how you think of yourself. It's way easier to turn that negative energy into fuel to work on bettering yourself through health, fitness or just positive thinking than to try and make others feel bad. 

Lastly, I want to say thanks to each and every woman who had something critical or negative to say about my Richard Sherman photo. You make me work that much harder on my 6am workouts and superfood eatin' right each day.

GO HAWKS!

My Favorite (Free!) Things to Do In Seattle

The weather's warming up, people are out for the school year, others are visiting or have relatives coming to visit. Whatever the case, emails asking for suggestions on things to do always seem to pick up in the summer time. Everyone knows to head to the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Waterfront and maybe even the Fremont Troll - but what else do locals like to do? I thought it'd be fun to share some of my favorite free things to do around the city, for those who need fun, quick suggestions.

Live Aloha Hawaiian Festival

Getting ready for some musubi, kahlua pork, lau lau & shave ice at Live Aloha 2013.

Seattle Center Festál Cultural Festivals

The crowds flock to Seattle Center for the Bite of Seattle and Folklife - but did you know there's a year-round calendar of cultural festivals that are also free to attend? I love Festál events for some great food, dance, music and cultural wares in much less chaotic festival experiences than the Bite or Folklife. Peep the full Festál calendar here. I'll see you at the Center for Pagdiriwang, Live Aloha and probably more!

Olympic Sculpture Park

Can't complain when this is our morning workout view.

Olympic Sculpture Park

If I'm honored enough to have you as an Instagram follower, you've seen many 'grams of early morning workouts at the Olympic Sculpture Park. The park is always free to walk through, and full of really inspirational works of art set amidst a perfectly Northwest 'urban trail' with pristine views of Elliott Bay. If you're early enough, you might even get to see some fine ladies powering through some burpees! :)

Gates Foundation Visitor Center

Testing my muscles out at the Gates Visitor Center. Gained a new level of respect for the women in Africa who haul buckets of this size & weight for miles to bring clean water to their families!

Gates Visitor Center

First Thursdays and/or Saturdays will get you in free to almost every museum in Seattle, but for complimentary admission every day, the Gates Foundation Visitor Center awaits. Follow my Gates Visitor Center ongoing series for everything I love about the Gates VC. More than anything, it's a quiet gem hidden right next to the bustling EMP & Seattle Center, perfect for some solid reflection on giving back to the world!

Art Ache

Layered up at Art Ache monthly art market

Art Ache

I love a good flea market, but unfortunately we have very slim pickings here in the city. Art Ache is a monthly art, music & style market hosted in some of the most Capitol Hill bars on the Hill. Lately, Art Ache has called Chop Suey home, and has been housed in Vermillion and Comet Tavern in the past. Catch the next Art Ache market on June 8th.

Ballard Farmer's Market

Keeping cool with Spike baby at the Ballard Farmer's Market

Ballard Farmer's Market

We are so fortunate to have multiple farmer's markets year-round in Seattle, and one of my favorites is the Ballard farmer's market. 10:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. every Sunday, they've got such an awesome collective of organic farmers from around the state. Make sure to head to the Alvarez Organic Farms stand for the most delicious cherry tomatoes you've ever tasted.

Alki - Fresh Jess - Photo Credit Sarah Lovrien

They see me rollin... (Photo credit Sarah Lovrien)

Alki

Typical Seattleites might avoid Alki in the summer because of the crazy crowds, but it's one of my favorite places in the city all year round. Alki feels faraway from the city with it actually being just a short jaunt over the West Seattle bridge. You can run or walk along the water; hold a bonfire; people watch for longboarders, paddleboarders, kayakers, dog-walkers and other fun characters; or grab a meal or drink right along the water. I also love Coastal, the little surf boutique that's open March - December.

Who knows? Maybe this'll parlay itself into a series of its own :) For weekly recommendations on stuff to do in the city, peep my top Seattle events picks post every Thursday (except for yesterday, as I was at a wake for our dear friend Bernie.)

Feel free to chime in on some of your favorite free things to do in Seattle in the comments below!

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Disclosure: This post is sponsored by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center.

Summer Style Refresh w/Bottled Starbucks® Iced Coffee (Sponsored)

Summer's right around the corner! We've been getting teases of sunshine and 80-degree weather already, and I can't wait until my day-to-day wardrobe consists mostly of shorts, tanks, light layers and flowy fabrics. This year, I've made a resolution of sorts to really cut down on clutter - including what's in my closet. While I'll mix new staples and finds in for the current and upcoming season, I try to do regular closet cleanses and donate or Poshmark things I don't need. With warmer weather approaching, it's time for another wardrobe refresh. Here are some of my favorite tips on how to edit, add and remix your closet:

Keep it real

I'm a big fan of the rule, "If you haven't worn it in over a year, it's got to go." If you're holding onto something with the hopes of one day fitting it again (but you haven't in years), let it go like Frozen. I picked up a great tip a few years ago to flip a hanger around if you wear the piece of clothing that goes on it. After six months, those whose hangers haven't been flipped are up for review (to keep or toss.) I still have a hard time parting with pieces that bring nostalgia and nothing else; keeping it real with myself has made it a lot easier to begrudgingly break up with the tangibles of old memories.

Play dress up

Probably the best part of closet cleansing is trying on all the stuff you want to keep! I always have a lot of fun creating new outfit combinations or trying out new trends by mixing together what I've already got in my closet. Sometimes the things you haven't worn in awhile have to go, and other times they just need a good dress-up session to bring it back into your current rotation.

Dolce Vita jumpsuit /  Zara strappy stilettos / earrings from Moksha / denim jacket from Urban Outfitters (old)

Incorporate statement pieces wisely

A lot of my wardrobe is neutral so I can layer up, but I'll take liberties in statement pieces to create different looks. I love vintage, estate sale and sample sale shopping for standout outerwear, and for summer I love bringing in lightweight fabrics in prints and patterns. I love a good romper and jumpsuit when I can find them!

Take care of your basics

If you're anything like me, you live in tanks, tees and other glorious cotton comforts that go with everything. Over time, I've learned that it can be worth it to indulge a bit in a higher-quality tank or tee that will last for ages. I also can't resist a good deal, so I'll also buy more affordable basics in multiple colors, then restock on ones I've worn holes or tears into.

Accessorize!

When you don't want to spend too much updating your wardrobe for the season, the quickest way to refresh is in accessories! Winter's all about scarves, while summer is solely for stocking up on sunnies. Accessories are also a great way to explore trends for the season; I snagged a bunch of trendy cat eye and mirrored sunglasses in a recent sale.

Happy summer style refresh y'all! Special shoutout to Bottled Starbucks® Iced Coffee for fueling my recent closet cleanses and subsequent shopping sessions.

Bottled Starbucks® Iced Coffee

beverages are the perfect blend of premium Starbucks coffee and 2 percent milk. Available in four delicious offerings: Coffee + Milk, Low Calorie Coffee + Milk, Vanilla, and Caramel, Bottled Starbucks® Iced Coffee ready-to-drink beverages are the perfect on-the-go refreshment to get you through the daily commute, big projects such as spring cleaning, or an exciting road trip with friends. Look for it at major grocery and convenience stores, available nationwide.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Starbucks Coffee Company via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Starbucks Coffee Company.