On the Town: Intermix Shopping Benefit for Artist Trust

Lisa Cole with Amy Wick

On the first Sunday of April, Vanguard Seattle’s fashion columnist Lisa Cole and Sonja Roach of Artist Trust hosted a private shopping event at the Intermix boutique in Bellevue Square. Cole covered the Intermix at the Bellevue Collection store opening in October. A wonderful rapport was established and Vanguard and Intermix were eager to partner to support a local cause. Choosing Artist Trust was a no-brainer considering the important role it plays in the local art community. Supporting artists in all creative disciplines, this non-profit organization provides grants, resources and career training for artists.

Since expanding to the Northwest, Intermix has actively pursued opportunities to engage with the Washington community. Store Manager, Allison Becker has sought out relationships on behalf of the company to strengthen local ties. The hope is to forge a relationship that will attract the attention of potential donors to the creative community in a lighthearted environment. It’s always fulfilling to see the fashion community and the art scene come together since these groups of people have so much to offer each other.

Nerys Jones, Amy Wick and Kari Hatlen

Lisa Cole brought along her own fashion entourage, which included some noteworthy women—Amy Wick, former President of the Miracle House Guild benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital, Nerys Jones, an opera singer for Pacific Northwest Ballet’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Carolyn Carlesimo, wife of former Sonics basketball coach P.J. Carlesimo. It was the first time that many attendees had been to Intermix and nobody left empty-handed. A portion of the proceeds directly benefited Artist Trust, which made it all the more enticing to indulge in the cutting edge selection of apparel and accessories. Designers available at Intermix include Azzedine Alaia, 3.1 Philip Lim, Barbara Bui, Derek Lam, DSquared2, DVF, Elizabeth and James, Emanuel Ungaro, Pucci, Genration Love, Givenchy, Herve Leger, Helmut Lang, J Brand Jason Wu, Joie, Kismet, Rag & Bone, Sergio Rossi, See by Chloe, Theory and Vince. The personal setting allowed the ladies to get one-on-one styling advice from the Intermix staff and from Lisa Cole herself. From chic sweaters to statement dresses, each guest was guided towards a personalized spring look. Aside from private shopping events, Intermix offers a personal styling program for women looking to dress for a specific occasion, find that major statement item, or even rework their entire wardrobe.

Sarah Caples, Allison Becker, Lisa Cole and Sonja Roach (l to r)

Juliana Pera in printed trousers by Diane von Furstenburg.

I myself had some fun browsing through the store. Perforated accents were everywhere from crop tops to baseball caps, offering a youthful and sporty vibe. I loved the Bailey 44 faux leather perforated top in a cropped silhouette. For a sophisticated look, Lisa suggested pairing it with a high-waisted pencil skirt. But, if you want to get a little wild, opt for printed trousers like the Diane Von Furstenberg mixed python print pant I wore. Rompers are another way to capture the youthful essence of spring. If you were at Coachella this past weekend, you probably saw them everywhere, but you can also glam them up with a pair of heels and a statement collar necklace. One of the guests got major nods of approval when she tried on the Roxy Printed Silk Romper exclusively designed for Intermix.

There’s something that often goes unsaid about these intimate moments between women. Even though on the outside it may appear that there is so much superficiality in the consumption of champagne, cupcakes and clothing, so much more is happening. Bonds are being established; the call to support the community is being made while forging the trust that comes from helping someone look and feel her best in the world she must carry through her work, family and social ties. Lisa Cole herself is adept at establishing tight knit relationships and keeping a fun energy around her and her people while still keeping her eye on the prize.

The evening concluded with kind words of gratitude from Sonja Roach, Development Associate and Member Liaison for Artist Trust, who explained in further detail the mission of the organization. Vanguard Seattle is thrilled to pursue its partnerships with Artist Trust and Intermix, and we look forward to future events.